Those were the concluding words of Lochmaben to Lockerbie Community Access Group chair Hamish McGhie in his chair’s report for 2024/25 following a special meeting last Thursday at Lochmaben Town Hall.
The registered charity discussed further options for the active travel path – one of which was to disband – after certain landowners along the proposed routes indicated they did not want to enter into negotiations to sell.
In the report, Hamish said: “The past 12 months have continued to be a bit of a roller coaster of LLCAG.
“There have been several positive highlights, however, despite the hard work of the committee, we have encountered a number of hurdles that have resulted in both frustration and disappointment and the potential for the project to fold.”
It was noted that the year started well, with the group continuing to work with SWestrans and Amey Consultants Ltd on the feasibility study.
Hamish added: “The final report was received in late May of 2024, with the recommendation that the preferred route would follow the old railway line using what remains of the bridge structure to cross the River Annan.
“All being well, the hope was to have the project ‘shovel ready’ in 2025.”
However, problems soon occurred after the group started to approach landowners along the route for initial discussions.
“Having the agreement of all landowners to enter further discussions was a necessary requirement before the procurement process for the next stage could begin,” Hamish explained.
“Several were immediately supportive. However, it quickly became clear that some would be more challenging than others.
“At the end of March, the committee was informed that one landowner, who has land that is key to both the preferred route and alternative route, indicated that he did not want to have any further discussions and would not consider the sale of any of his land.
“This situation has been hugely disappointing for all involved. The overwhelming support for the path from communities, stakeholders, local councillors and Swestrans remains, and it is clear the path is both wanted and needed.
“The challenge for the committee for 2025/26 is to explore the ‘what now?’ question and determine the next steps.”
