walkhighlands

Bothy work and closures planned for 2014

Shenavall Bothy (photo: lowcloud)

Shenavall Bothy (photo: lowcloud)

The 2014 bothy maintenance season is about to get into full swing and whilst the Mountain Bothies Association (MBA) aims to keep disruption to a minimum, it is warning that some bothies may have to be closed for a short period or that space at some may be restricted. The MBA asks that walkers should check the maintenance programme on the MBA website and to be prepared to camp. It also says that work party dates can change, sometimes at short notice so it is worthwhile checking before setting off on a trip.

Major work is to be carried out at Gleann Dubh-lighe bothy near Fort William during the period 4-13 April. The bothy will be unavailable during this period. Similarly at Shenavall which will be closed from 26 April until 3 May.

Repairs are to be carried out to the roof of Uisinis bothy in South Uist during the period 3-24 April and at An Cladach bothy on Islay during the period 31 March to 6 April. The MBA says visitors should be prepared to camp. Other work parties so far arranged for early spring include Strathchailleach, Strathan, and Peanmeanach, all in the Scottish Highlands.

Wainhope Bothy in Northern England will be closed from March 22nd to late August to allow the ospreys an uninterrupted breeding season. The MBA reports that they have just arrived from Africa.

As previously reported on Walkhighlands, Culra bothy near Ben Alder remains closed due to the danger from asbestos in the building.

The MBA is a charity established in 1965. It has around 3,600 members, and undertakes the restoration and maintenance of a number of old cottages, huts and similar buildings throughout the wilder parts of Scotland, England and Wales for use as open shelters for walkers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Many of the buildings that are cared for by the MBA would otherwise have become derelict. The Association currently looks after almost 100 bothies. All of the restoration and maintenance work is undertaken by volunteers and is financed by member subscriptions and by donations.

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You should always carry a backup means of navigation and not rely on a single phone, app or map. Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is every walker's responsibility to check it and to navigate safely.