GLEN HELEN ACCESS FOR ALL PROJECT
Project Summary
Specifications
Phase 1 Phase
2 Phase 3
Phase 4 Glen
Helen Inn
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The aim of the
project is to improve the 1200metres of main path through Glen Helen to Rhenass
waterfall, for the enjoyment of all. Although the work will involve replacing
one of the bridges and a fair amount of ground-works, the glen should remain
open. Access to the waterfall will still be available via the secondary path on
the south side of the river.
Fundraising for the
estimated £50,000 total cost of the project began on the 26th April
2006.
Construction of the path is
planned to take place in 4 phases to minimise disruption and to allow work to
begin as soon as sufficient funds are available for each phase. The final phase
will hopefully be suitable for the involvement of volunteers to help maintain
the fundraising momentum.
The entire path has been
surveyed to identify excessive slope, rocky stretches and drainage points.
Stretches where safety handrails may be required have been noted.
Initial ground-works for
each phase will involve leveling to provide a firm base for the path surface.
The few, short stretches with excessively steep slopes will have the slope
reduced, with level landings as necessary. Existing drainage will be retained
and improved where required. The width of the path in the first phase (approach
to waterfall) will be kept down to 1.2metres to reflect the rugged nature of the
glen at this point. The remaining path will have a running surface of 2.4metres
minimum to allow for the continuing access of Forestry Division maintenance
crews.
The design of the new path
incorporates natural, local materials. A running surface of crushed and
compacted stone will reduce visual impact. All retained in treated timber kerbs
from the Forestry Division, with safety handrails from the same source.
The importance of drainage
has not been overlooked. The path surface will have a gentle cross slope to
divert surface water to the lower side where gaps in the timber kerb will allow
it to escape. Water draining from the upper slopes of the glen will be caught in
a gutter on the top side of the path, passing through culverts to the lower
side.
Future users will benefit
from the smooth running surface with gentle slopes. Numerous resting benches
will be provided along the entire length of the path (sponsors required).
Discreet interpretation and information plaques will advise users as they
progress toward the waterfall.
For able-bodied users, the
challenge of the secondary path on the south side of the river will remain,
helping to retain the character of the glen.
The Friends are delighted to have the support of 
