The main access route into Taynish National Nature Reserve (NNR), by Tayvallich, will be closed for a period of about three weeks from the first week in February 2009, including weekends. A failing retaining wall on the public road near the entrance to the nature reserve means that Argyll and Bute Council have to do some road realignment. So, while this is being done and for safety reasons, the road will be closed to pedestrians as well as vehicles.

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), which manages the Taynish Reserve, is working with the Council to manage the disruption for people visiting the nature reserve.

SNH Reserve Manager, John Halliday, says: ‘Visitors will still be able to access the reserve by following a temporary diversion which will leave the public road between the Tayvallich primary school entrance and the site of the road works.  Please be aware that this will be a rough waymarked trail over very steep terrain, which rejoins the public road a short distance beyond the roadworks. Due to the nature of the terrain, this temporary route is only suitable for walkers.

‘Visitors to the reserve arriving by car can park as usual in the nearby public car park opposite the Tayvallich Village Hall but will have to walk in using the temporary route.  We hope people will take advantage of the
alternative walking route and enjoy this beautiful woodland reserve while the work is going on.

‘As an alternative, visitors could consider visiting nearby nature reserves at Barnluasgan at the Tayvallich – Achnamara road junction or the Moine Mhor on the Bellanoch – Kilmartin road where car parking and paths for all-abilities are always available’.

Anyone planning to visit the Taynish Reserve may wish to contact Taynish Reserve staff at Scottish Natural
Heritage in Lochgilphead on 01546 603611.