A row over public access through a Laurieston forest has taken a new twist.
Balmaghie Community Council is to hold a public meeting on a blocked path to Slogarie.
The decision follows the discovery of a two-metre high fence built across the route at Nether Crae.
Members agreed the move unanimously at the Brig o’ Dee Mission Hall on Thursday. Balmaghie Public Hall in Laurieston will host the gathering at 7pm on February 25.
Chairperson Shirley Thomson told members: “A public meeting is the best way to go about this. It is a community issue.”
Vice convener Ian Mair was concerned about access rights elsewhere.
He said: “If this is allowed to go ahead it could set a precedent.
“It may not be recognised as a core path but it is still being used regularly. It is a blatant breach of the 2003 Act.”
Geoff Monk suggested the council’s access officer should attend the meeting.
And secretary Des Hadnett felt that getting the public’s views on how to proceed was essential.
He said: “It is beholden upon us to hold a public meeting. We have got to be able to ascertain from the public what they want.
“Dumfries and Galloway Council is the access authority and they will have the final say.”
"The path has been habitually used not just by people on foot but has been a cycling and horseriding route.”
