HIGHLAND Council’s Countryside Ranger and Access team has been saved in the council’s budget proposals for 2017/18.
Leader Margaret Davidson said the council had made the decision after listening to representations about the team from more than 60 individuals, as well as organsations such as the Scottish Countryside Rangers’ Association, Scottish Wildlife Trust, John Muir Trust, RSPB Scotland, Mountaineering Scotland and Scottish Youth Hostel Associ ation. Ms Davidson said: ‘As part of the council’s budget proposals, we have revised the rangers and access team savings and are seeking to retain both services with minor reductions and restructuring.
‘Importantly, we understand the value that is placed on countryside services and the high regard with which they are held within the community. The council’s proposals will only have a limited impact on the future of the service.