Track maintenance work; RSPB Orkney, Black Moss, April 2024

Descriptions

RSPB have plans to begin carrying out peatland restoration on our Birsay Moors reserve, which is accessed via a pre-existing 4x4 track over third party land. We are currently progressing negotiations with the neighbouring landowner who is amenable to entering into a formal agreement to permit access. The track is approximately 2.5km in length from the end of the public road and is in variable condition, with some areas almost impassable by a 4x4. Much of the track is wet throughout the year as it intersects historic peat banks and access routes at the top of the slope, which then drain water onto and down the track. The appendix includes a photo catalogue of the track, which was undertaken in dry conditions. The purpose of the tendered works is to re-instate the track into a robust useable condition to facilitate access for peatland restoration on Birsay Moors. The track will have to be used by 4x4 vehicles and excavators and for deliveries of fuel and materials to site.