Outside body

The Stepping Stones project aims to:-

• Improve access for all:
• Initiate the development of new routes and circular paths around the Project area
• Facilitate improvements to access routes.
• Promote and encourage routes to be accessible to all sectors of the community
• Promote and encourage development of new sites where there are increased opportunities for public enjoyment, appreciation and awareness of the countryside.

• Enhance the countryside:
• Promote and provide advice, technical support and financial assistance on countryside management and environmental improvement issues.
• Support initiatives that encourage and promote sustainable agricultural practice within the project area.
• Increase the area and quality of woodland cover where appropriate.
• Support and promote opportunities for community based habitat creation and management schemes

• Improve awareness of the countryside:
• Encourage opportunities for training courses.
• Develop and support opportunities for environmental education
• Promote responsible use of the countryside
• Raise awareness of the conflicts and pressures facing the countryside.

• Encourage community action:
• Encouraging positive action to protect people’s environment
• Provide some of the resources to enable local people to plan, implement and manage projects on the ground
• Facilitate links between the private sector and community groups.
• Support and encourage nature conservation volunteers.