Pupils from Kinnoull Primary School were among the first to set foot on a new path as a keenly anticipated traffic-free route from Perth to Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park was officially opened at a ceremony on Wednesday (11 June).
They were joined by more than 20 attendees including Trustees and staff from The Gannochy Trust, representatives from Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT), and Thomson Landscaping, the main contractors behind the build.
This new path, granted planning permission in December 2023, provides walkers, cyclists and wheelers with a scenic and safer alternative to Muirhall Road. The route connects Perth’s existing core path network with one of the region’s most iconic green spaces, offering residents and visitors safer and more enjoyable access to the outdoors.
Running from the top end of the Murray Royal Hospital site and linking directly to the trail network in Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, the path was fully funded by The Gannochy Trust. In addition to improving accessibility, the development includes over 600 newly planted trees and hedgerow species, creating a dedicated wildlife corridor that supports local biodiversity and provides habitat for a range of birds, small mammals, and pollinators.
The upper section of the path offers striking views across the Perthshire landscape, enhancing the walking experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Speaking at Wednesday’s ceremony on the new path, Andy Duncan, Chief Executive of The Gannochy Trust, said:
“We are delighted to open our new community path for the public to enjoy. Kinnoull Hill and the surrounding network of paths have been a popular destination for walkers and cyclists for many years. Our new path will create a safer access route to Kinnoull Hill as well as enhancing wildlife biodiversity in the area. The Trust is committed to improving access to the countryside for our housing tenants and the wider Perth community.”
Bid Strachan, Communities Officer, PKCT said:
“Kinnoull Hill is one of the premier sites in the area for people to enjoy the great outdoors and we’re delighted that this new attractive route makes it safer and more accessible for local residents and visitors of all ages to get out there.
We are grateful to Forestry and Land Scotland for their support and to The Gannochy Trust for their ongoing commitment to add value to their estate for the benefit of all.”
Catriona Steele, Head Teacher at Kinnoull Primary said:
“This new path provides a safer route from the Bridgend, Kinnoull, and Gannochy areas of our school community to one of Perth’s most picturesque spots. It is fantastic that our pupils have been invited along today to view the results of this project, and we look forward to future year groups from Kinnoull Primary School utilising the path in the future”