The Cinder Path

Upgrading the Cinder Path was an ongoing project for some time. Paths, parks, signage and general infrastructure improvements were highlighted in both the 2018 and the 2023 Community Action Plans.

The Community Council agreed that the improvement of the Cinder Path was a worthwhile project and applied and obtained planning permission in 2024 with the aid of a grant from the Ian Findlay Path Fund of Paths for All, now Walking Scotland.

The Community Trust, together with Ken Gibson, worked hard to secure funding for the improvement work itself. The Ian Findlay Path Fund of Walking Scotland offered funding for 70% of the costs with the Cairngorms National Park Authority funding the remaining 30%.

With the help of our project managers, Alan Jones Associates, the Community Trust went out to tender and appointed CR Contracting North Ltd (CRC) of Banchory who have a good track record and have carried out various similar projects locally.

The planning approval included necessary tree works and tree protection for tree roots that might be impacted by the upgrading of the path. Some trees were therefore trimmed and a few dangerous trees felled before work on the path itself started.

During the work Invercauld Estate kindly allowed us to construct a temporary access route immediately to the south. We are grateful to all the landowners including Aberdeenshire Council, Invercauld Estate and Monaltrie House for their assistance and co-operation.

Work began in November 2025.

In February 2026 it was subject to torrential rains and some flooding but stood up reasonably well to the weather and the improved path seems generally to have been well used.

We hope that the upgraded path, in conjunction with the new play park, will give Monaltrie Park a welcome boost.