Work is to begin on the final stretch of Loch Leven’s popular heritage trail despite concerns plans have been ”rushed”.
The 6.5km section of the new walking and cycling path from Kinross Mill to Vane Farm is the last planned by the Rural Access Committee for Kinross-shire (TRACKS).
Councillors gave the work the green light this week amid fears the deadline to secure the last batch of funding was nearing.
However objectors at Perth and Kinross Council’s development management committee meeting said the plans had been hurried through with ”too little” thought.
Homeowners John Haynes and Alan Bell, whose cottages lie just 30 metres from the proposed route, claimed they had not been consulted during the process.
”We have been treated with contempt like we are nothing more than a minor irritation that can be brushed aside,” Mr Haynes said.
”We are not against the route but we know there are better alternatives that have been discarded.”
Mr Bell said: ”I would like to see the rules in force to protect birds from disturbances replicated for people. The reputation of this trail, which is a real gem for the area, is being damaged.”
Ramblers Scotland welcomed the news the trail is to be finished but indicated other routes should still be investigated.
Director Dave Morris said: ”This is an important milestone in the completion of this project which will provide an outstanding recreational experience for all.
”However the route as approved goes around the periphery of the RSPB reserve and is too long, too exposed to bad weather, too steep and too close to the B9097.
Mr Morris said the proposed ramblers’ route through parts of the reserve would be more appropriate.
He said: ”If mitigation measures are put in place, we are not convinced that the levels of disturbance to wildlife would be as great as has been suggested by RSPB.”
Loch Leven is renowned as a haven for wildlife, particularly its wintering birds, and attracts thousands of nature lovers each year.