Galloway forest routes in line for upgrade

The work will be carried out in Kirroughtree and Glentrool forests

Four "key walking routes" through forests in south west Scotland are in line for an upgrade to improve access.

Forestry Commission Scotland is carrying out the work in Kirroughtree and Glentrool forests.

It is hoped the work on the trails will open them up to local people and visitors and provide a tourism boost.

The routes, chosen for their popularity, will be redesigned to take out steep sections and will be made suitable for all-weather use.

Keith Muir, FCS head of tourism and recreation in Galloway said: "Galloway Forest Park has a fantastic reputation for walking and we are keen to ensure this continues.

"We've chosen routes for upgrading which form the backbone of our network of walking trails.

"In addition to better walking trails, we'll be improving access at other locations by replacing old bridges allowing for more upgrading in the future."

He said there would be some "slight disruption" while the work was being carried out but he was sure it would result in "great walking trails".

The trails being upgraded are the Glentrool yellow and green routes and Kirroughtree's yellow and blue walks.

Dumfries and Galloway Council has contributed some funding to the upgrades of the Loch Trool circular trail, which shares its route with the Southern Upland Way.