Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

Just 20 miles from Glasgow - with 9 visitor centres Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park aims to cater for as many types of visitor as possible. For example, Lunderston Bay, near Gourock, will be flying yellow and blue flags again this summer after winning the coveted Tidy Britain Group award for its clean beach for the second time. The bay, managed by Clyde Muirshiel Park Authority, passed strict checks for beach management and facilities and water that complied with the European Bathing Water Directive. Communities within the park were asked in a recent survey to find out what sort of facilities they wanted. Local people as well as national and regional bodies were involved in the review to make sure the park met their needs The recommendations now form the basis for a new strategic plan for the park. In the hills above Greenock, a local farmer is providing comfort to walkers. The farm has got two sheilings - wooden bunkhouses where walkers can stay overnight. Clyde Muirshiel Park Authority will deal with bookings while the farmer sees to day to day needs of visitors and earn a little extra income. Its more of a service to those coming to enjoy the views and fresh air. The huts are well fitted out and provide some comfort for up to 5 adults. The huts are fully insulated and lined with non-combustable board. The exterior is larch or Scots pine and they are designed to fit into a field or woodland setting. The sheilings, which cost about £2,500 each, have been provided by Inverclyde Council in partnership with the Park Authority. They are operated on a revenue-sharing basis with farmers who choose to have them. The bunkhouses fit well into the environment and help bring farmers and walkers together. The park also caters for many other activities that require 'natural power' such as sailing, mountain biking and orienteering. A major project the Park Authority is involved with at present is the Semple Water Access Initiative. This scheme hopes to do three things: Install a new, 'access friendly' pontoon suitable for wheelchairs and large numbers of competitors during regattas. Build a new, larger slip to give quicker water access for sailors and canoeists. Complete new landscaping that will segregate vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians to improve safety. For further information about Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park please contact Clyde Muirshiel Park Authority Barnbrock Farm Kilbarchan Renfrewshire PA10 2PZ