The purpose of this letter is to circulate an idea around the Community in the hopes of
winning support for the Loch Schalloch restoration project.
Loch Schalloch lies in a fold of ground on the west side of Fell Hill approximately 5 miles
south west of the village of Barr and was for many generations part of the Alton Albany
Estate. Access to the Loch was traditionally down a path that linked Barr with Barrhill. That
wayleave has not been maintained and the path is now hard to follow due to the extensive
forestry planting and lack of maintenance.
After much thought and discussion with Merryn Fergusson, Alex’ widow and her children we
came up with a plan which it is hoped, once realised, would be a lasting memorial to the
Fergussons and their gallant ancestors.
Here is an outline of the plan so far.
Firstly, with the co-operation of Forestry Land Scotland and other landowners, to come up
with a feasibility study to restore the ancient access route from the village to the Loch.
Secondly, to enter into an agreement with F.L.S. (in conjunction with their long-term
forestry plan) and set in place a gradual enhancement of the Loch side environment. My
vision for Loch Schalloch is for it to become both an amenity and recreational destination,
accessible by foot or by bicycle for the benefit of the local community and visitors. I
envisage an outdoor learning area, a scenic picnic area and view points, a wild swimming
jetty, with a boat and mooring linked to an angling club. However, ideas from the
community are important too and I would welcome incorporating them into the project. It
is my hope to keep our ambitions clear and simple including a long term maintenance plan.
Once sensible costings are worked out, funding would be found between a combination of
Public and Private contributions.
If you are in favour of the Loch Schalloch project as a memorial to Alex Fergusson, it would
be very helpful if you could email your support to warrender@minuntion.com Such emails
would be positive proof of the community’s support and would galvanise my determination
to re-establish a much loved and cherished destination in our area in memory of a dear
friend.
As things progress I will be seeking to form a small steering group and will be looking for a
few enthusiastic volunteers to help move things forward.
Many thanks for considering this proposal,
Johnny Warrender