(Image: Paul Saunders)
The West Highland Way Trust has appointed James Allan as its new director as the charity steps up efforts to protect the future of Scotland’s 96-mile walking route.
Mr Allan brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across the public, charity, sport and outdoor sectors.
West Highland Way. (Image: Lee Johnston)
The newly established charity aims to attract funding, build partnerships and support practical projects to maintain the route, which runs from Milngavie to Fort William.
The West Highland Way passes through some of Scotland’s best-known landscapes and supports around 200 businesses along its length. Officially opened in October 1980, it is estimated to generate an annual economic contribution of around £12.3 million.
More than 45,000 people walk the entire route each year, with at least as many again exploring shorter sections.
The Trust is supported by organisations including Macs Adventure and NatureScot. The route itself continues to be managed by the West Highland Way Management Group, which includes Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, The Highland Council, East Dunbartonshire Council, Argyll and Bute Council, and Stirling Council.
Mr Allan previously led RYA Scotland, the national governing body for sailing and boating, and has also worked in local government and outdoor education. Most recently, he has advised charities and community organisations on strategy, governance and organisational development.
West Highland Way. (Image: Newsquest)
A keen hillwalker, skier and windsurfer, he will initially focus on defining the Trust’s role, building its fundraising capacity and strengthening communications.
Plans for the coming months include recruiting a Funding and Communications Manager, developing long-term income streams and launching new projects along the route. The Trust also intends to carry out a full-route audit to identify maintenance requirements.
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Stuart Mearns, chair of the West Highland Way Trust, said: "I’m delighted to welcome James as Director of the West Highland Way Trust.
"His appointment marks an exciting new chapter, building on the achievements of our partners and everyone who has contributed to caring for the route over its 46-year history.
"With James on board, we can strengthen this support, bring more partners into our work, and achieve even more for the West Highland Way."
James Allan, director of the West Highland Way Trust, said: "The establishment of a charitable Trust opens up a whole range of new opportunities for the West Highland Way.
"We can attract new funding, develop partnerships and bring people together to support practical improvements to the route, benefiting walkers, local businesses and the communities along the way.
"The West Highland Way is a world-class long-distance route and one of Scotland’s most treasured outdoor assets.
"The Trust will play a vital role in caring for it over the decades to come, ensuring future generations can enjoy everything it offers.
"We want everyone who values the West Highland Way to support our work and help secure its future."