We are pleased to hear of one of the first successes for Scotlands new access legislation. The six foot high gate on the bridge at Alltchaoruinn in Glen Etive(NN197513, Landranger 41) has been padlocked shut for many years, forcing walkers to clamber over it or ford the river below. See for example the SMC Guide to the Corbetts - Beinn Mhic Chasgaig. The situation has been the subject of attention by the Access Officer for the Lochaber Area.

Section 14(1) of the Act prevents the owners of land taking any action intended to prevent people exercising their access rights, and locking this gate is clearly that. Section 14(2) empowers the local authority to serve a written notice on the owner, requiring that the situation is remedied. Ultimately, the authority can do the work themselves, and bill the owner for it.

The Access Officer has contacted the estate several times and it appears they have backed down and unlocked the padlock before a Section 14(2) notice became necessary.

If anyone is in the area and finds an access problem at this bridge, or anywhere else, please let us know, using the reporting form.