Latest news with #Trust
IOL News
10 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Ingonyama Trust Board seeks to refund illegal rent payments to residents
A logo of the Ingonyama Trust Board showing land in the background. Image: The Ingonyama Trust Board is currently attempting to trace nearly 1,620 individuals who were unlawfully charged 'rent' for residing on land owned by the trust after being asked to sign lease agreements. This issue stems from a court case initiated by the Legal Resources Centre on behalf of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC), the Rural Women's Movement (RWM), and seven individual holders of informal land rights against the Ingonyama Trust, the Ingonyama Trust Board, and the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform. The case challenged the leases imposed on residents by the trust. The plaintiffs sought a court declaration that all such lease agreements are invalid and unlawful, requesting that the Trust and the Board refund all money paid under these unlawful leases to those affected. Media reports indicate that in November 2017, the Ingonyama Trust published advertisements in various KwaZulu-Natal newspapers inviting holders of Permission to Occupy (PTOs) to approach the Ingonyama Trust Board with the aim of upgrading these PTOs into long-term leases, in line with the Ingonyama Trust tenure policy. It was reported that residents received no information about the consequences of signing these leases; they were not informed that they were, in effect, diminishing their existing land rights. Furthermore, the Ingonyama Trust's rollout of these leases deprived many women of their land ownership. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading On June 11 2021, the Pietermaritzburg High Court declared the actions of the Ingonyama Trust unlawful and in violation of the Constitution for initiating leases with individuals already residing on Zulu customary land. The court further ordered that those who had signed leases should be refunded. The Trust sought leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal but this was refused in 2022. On Wednesday, the Trust briefed the media on the process underway to comply with the court ruling and refund those who had been made to pay. It said efforts were being made to trace people who payments. 'We are currently contact-tracing approximately 1,620 people who made payments under these leases from around 2008 until the date of the court order. So far, approximately 208 individuals have been traced and refunded, and we have given ourselves a period of 18 months to finalise contact tracing, payment, and lease cancellation,' the Trust stated in a press release. THE MERCURY
Daily Record
14 hours ago
- Daily Record
10 breathtaking Scottish walks to feed your sense of adventure
From fathomless lochs and wild coastlines to historic woodlands and the mighty Munros, Scotland has it all when it comes to awe-inspiring landscapes. And what better way to see them than by tackling one or more of these spectacular and invigorating walks? It's also a great way to mark the 25th anniversary of the National Trust for Scotland's annual Footpath Fund appeal. It's thanks to the charity's work that much of this epic landscape can be explored and enjoyed throughout the year. Research carried out for the Trust offers a timely reminder of just how important these natural wonders are, with 97% of Scots saying that getting outside is essential for their mental health. Almost the same number said that spending time outdoors was effective at reducing their stress levels.* It's why the National Trust for Scotland works so hard to maintain the 76,000 hectares of countryside, 300 miles of footpaths, and eight national nature reserves under its care. And to shine a light on the amazing work done by its footpath team, the charity is highlighting a selection of magical walks that showcase the very best of Scotland's natural beauty. For those seeking a bit of adventure, here are 10 recommended spots. And if you're inspired by the idea of some 'Munro-bagging' – conquering the peaks that rise above 3,000ft – we've included some breathtaking summits for you to tick off your list. Beinn Alligin, Torridon The mountains of Torridon contain some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland, and five of the Trust's 46 Munros are located within the West Coast estate. Take on the challenging 10.5km hike to the summit of Beinn Alligin – known as the Jewelled Mountain – which includes a 1,180m climb. Keep an eye out for pine martens and golden eagles along the way. Beinn Fhada, Kintail Climbing Beinn Fhada is a rewarding journey, offering incredible views of the northwest Highlands. On a clear day, you can even see across to the Isle of Skye. The 18km trail begins at Morvich, taking hikers through a picturesque glen and up to the Bealach an Sgairne mountain pass. Meall Corranaich, Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve Meall Corranaich is one of seven peaks in this Central Highlands nature reserve, all of which offer superb views over Loch Tay. It's covered in rich Arctic-alpine flora and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including red deer, ravens, skylarks and black grouse. Visit in summer and you may get a glimpse of the mountain ringlet butterfly. Click here to start planning your walk Ben Lomond At over 3,000ft, the summit of Ben Lomond offers panoramic views across the Trossachs National Park. Gaze as far as Ben Nevis to the north, the Ochils and Pentlands to the east, the uplands of Galloway in the south, and Mull, Islay and Arran in the west. You'll also spot plenty of wildlife on the 13km return trip, including ptarmigan and ravens, skylarks and even pine martens. Click here to start planning your walk Goatfell Towering above Brodick Castle, Goatfell rises 2,866ft, making it the tallest peak on the Isle of Arran. Visit on a clear day and you'll be able to see the coastline of Ireland. Climb it in winter and you might find snow at the summit. Reaching the peak takes between two and five hours, so lace up your best walking boots and pack plenty of supplies. Click here to start planning your walk Loch Skeen, Grey Mare's Tail Grey Mare's Tail is a stunning 60m-high waterfall that plunges into Dumfriesshire's Moffat Valley. Take a few minutes to gaze at this natural wonder before heading on to explore the dazzling Loch Skeen. The walk is also a wonderland for wildlife lovers, with ospreys, ring ouzels, feral goats and peregrine falcons all regular fixtures in the nature reserve. Crofting and coastline circuit, Balmacara This moderate 3km walk in the crofting estate of Balmacara passes through grasslands bursting with birdlife and butterflies. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many spots where you can look out over Applecross and the Isle of Skye. See a huge variety of Scottish wildlife, including red squirrels, otters and Highland cattle. Kernsary Path, Inverewe Inverewe is renowned for its wild landscape and is home to Scotland's Big Five: the golden eagle, red deer, otter, red squirrel and harbour seal. Visitors can enjoy a walk along a mountain path that meanders through woodland and along the edge of Loch Kernsary. On clear days, there are excellent views of the Torridon mountains, as well as the remains of a prehistoric roundhouse covered in heather. Linn of Quoich, Mar Lodge Estate Covering more than 29,000 hectares, the Mar Lodge Estate is Britain's largest National Nature Reserve. It features heather-covered moorland, Caledonian pine forests and the Quoich wetlands, making it a remarkable haven for wildlife. Enjoy a 5km circular walk around Glen Quoich, which takes you past the historic Earl of Mar's Punchbowl and Queen Victoria's Picnic Lodge. Corrieshalloch circuit Corrieshalloch, an impressive gorge just an hour's drive from Inverness, offers a 3.4km circuit that includes crossing Sir John Fowler's 25m Victorian suspension bridge.
Daily Record
14 hours ago
- Daily Record
10 stunning but easy walks that show off the best of Scotland's scenery
Scotland is best explored on foot. Splendid in summer, enchanting in autumn, and windswept and rugged in winter, its picturesque landscapes offer something for every season. And thanks to the National Trust for Scotland, much of this natural beauty can be accessed, explored and enjoyed throughout the year. In total, the Trust cares for 76,000 hectares of countryside, more than 100 historic properties, including castles, gardens and battlefields… and 300 miles of footpaths. This year marks 25 years since the Trust's Footpath Fund was launched. The money raised goes towards maintaining and restoring those 300 miles of footpaths, which in turn helps protect the country's epic but fragile landscape. To celebrate this milestone, the charity is highlighting a selection of magical walks that showcase the very best of Scotland's natural landscape. Here we've picked 10 places that are particularly suitable for family outings, from gentle walks that suit all ages and abilities, to those centred on historic locations with activities for children. Brodie Castle pond walk Located just 20 miles from Inverness, the Brodie estate features a 16th-Century turreted castle set amid the stunning Moray landscape. This buggy-friendly 40-minute, 2.4km walk is ideal for families, offering two cafes on site, play parks, and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife from the hides positioned along the route. Barry Mill meander A short drive inland from Carnoustie on Scotland's dramatic North Sea coast, Barry Mill is a beautiful haven of woodlands and waterside trails. Stroll the 1.5km route that runs along the Barry Burn, keeping an eye out for dippers, kingfishers and herons along the way. Visitors can enjoy picnics throughout the year. Centenary walk, Hill of Tarvit This tranquil 1.8km route in the Fife foothills takes you along the outer edge of a unique nine-hole hickory golf course, passing through mature woodlands. After completing the 40-minute stroll, grab a takeaway coffee or other refreshment on site, enjoy a picnic, or consider taking a guided tour of the magnificent Edwardian mansion at the heart of the estate. Click here to start planning your walk Estate walk, Newhailes Enjoy a gentle 2km walk in the grounds of this 18th-Century estate with views of the River Forth before sitting down to a spot of lunch at the Stables Café. Take a guided tour of Newhailes House, or go in time to catch the monthly farmers' market - there are sometimes even musical performances to enjoy. Children will also love the Weehailes Adventure Playpark, and the Playful Summer activities, with a series of themed play zones until August 25. Greenbank woodland walk Less than a mile outside Glasgow's Southside suburbs lies Greenbank Garden, an urban oasis and secluded walled garden featuring more than 3,600 plant species. The Greenbank woodland walk is an easy trail through the magnificent beech and oak trees, and is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. Grab a coffee or snack at the cafe, or bring your own food and enjoy it in designated picnic areas or around the garden. Swan Pond loop, Culzean Culzean Castle, situated on the Ayrshire Coast, is a stunning masterpiece perched atop a cliff overlooking woods, beaches and play parks. The five-hectare Swan Pond is circled by a 1.3km footpath and surrounded by mature woodland, making it an ideal spot for observing waterfowl. Enjoy a snack at Home Farm cafe, or treat yourself at the Aviary ice cream shop, next to the pond and kids' adventure playpark. Threave Nature Reserve circular Discover one of Scotland's most biodiverse nature reserves, featuring breathtaking views of the Galloway Hills. Watch for ospreys, red kites, and peregrine falcons while exploring a 2km loop around Threave Castle. Wildlife hides are available along the route, and the estate also includes a flagship bat reserve. After your stroll, be sure to check out the recently refurbished cafe and terrace with garden views. Click here to start planning your walk St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve St Abb's Head, on the rugged Berwickshire Coast, is home to a spectacular clifftop nature reserve renowned for its seabird colonies. Embark on the 6km stroll featuring dramatic views of the North Sea and Mire Loch. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also tackle the quarter-mile trek up Kirk Hill. Click here to start planning your walk Geilston Garden walk Geilston Garden, located on the banks of the River Clyde in northwest Cardross, is a historic garden dating back to 1797. Visitors can walk the gentle 2km trail and explore the beautiful bluebell woods along the Geilston Burn. You can also buy fresh fruit and vegetables grown on the 10-acre site – a delicious addition to any picnic. Crarae woodland walk Just 10 miles south of Inveraray, this family-friendly adventure features scenic woodland trails through a garden with Himalayan plants and dramatic waterfalls. The highlight is the sparkling Crarae Burn, surrounded by rocky gorges, wooden bridges, and maple, birch and evergreen trees. Be sure to visit the cafe for a snack and a drink.
Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Park near Glasgow issues warning after due to plant
Palacerigg Community Trust took to Facebook this morning, July 22, to alert the public after receiving reports of children picking — and in one case, eating — ragwort at Palacerigg Country Park in Cumbernauld. The wildflower has been seen growing along Palacerigg Road, near the entrance to the park, which is a popular spot for families, dog walkers, and nature enthusiasts. READ MORE: Rat infested Palacerigg park reopens as visitors told: 'Watch your waste' Ragwort (Image: Newsquest) The Trust issued the warning in an effort to raise awareness about the dangers associated with the plant. While ragwort is more toxic to animals, it can also be harmful to humans if consumed in large quantities. Handling the plant, particularly pulling it up by hand, can cause skin irritation. Dog owners are being urged to take caution in the area, as ingestion of ragwort can cause liver damage in dogs. Symptoms of poisoning include a loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), weight loss, and general weakness. READ MORE: Firefighters tackle 300 metre long blaze at Palacerigg Country Park Ragwort is even more dangerous for horses. When eaten, the plant causes cumulative liver damage, meaning that small amounts consumed over time can be just as harmful as a large quantity eaten all at once. The effects are often irreversible and can prove fatal. Following the initial warning, Palacerigg Community Trust issued a further statement reminding visitors of responsible behaviour when enjoying the countryside. They advised people not to pick wildflowers, to remain on designated footpaths, to avoid disturbing animals, to take litter home, and to refrain from lighting fires or barbecues in the park. The Trust stated: 'The countryside belongs to all of us – but it thrives when we treat it with care. Follow the Countryside Code to keep yourself safe and help keep our wild spaces beautiful, safe, and alive for future generations.'
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
National Trust launches its Summer of Play events for the kids' school holidays
If you're looking for fun activities to get your children outside this summer holidays, National Trust's Summer of Play lets them try everything from nature walks to arts and crafts With the kids set to break up for their school holidays any day now, it's time to start planning how you're going to keep them active and engaged for the next six weeks. Lots of time outdoors is always a winner, which is why National Trust's newly-launched Summer of Play events are ideal. The events will take place at locations all over the country at various National Trust locations, and you'll get everything from pop up sports days and nature walks to arts and crafts and mini theatres for budding performers. This is now the third year that the Summer of Play events have run at the National Trust sites, making them a well-established way for the kids to pass the time during the school holidays. Whilst the Summer of Play events are completely free of charge, you will need to pay the standard admission fee to access the Trust's sites where they're held. All National Trust sites are free to under fives, carers and National Trust members, but older children and adults will need to pay admission to the sites. You can opt to pay a one off admission fee to the site you're wanting to visit, or you could always purchase an annual membership for the family which lets you access all of the UK's National Trust sites and saves you money in the process. Not to mention this gives you access to Summer of Play events across the country – perfect if you're planning a staycation or trip to visit family in other cities. If you don't want to commit to a full year's membership, you could also check out the National Trust Explorer Pass which is great if you're not a member but plan on visiting regularly over the summer months. Giving you access to most of the sites for all the family for four, eight or 14 days, it's priced between £36 for four days and a single adult, up to £108 for 14 days for a family of four with two adults and two children. There are also plenty of other ideas to keep your kids occupied this summer, with Visit Britain also offering passes to everything from historical sites and castles to theme parks and zoos. Red Letter Days is also great for kids of all ages (not to mention adults too), getting you discounts and easy-to-book activities ranging from safari parks to staycations and cinema tickets. However if you want to make the most of National Trust's Summer of Play events, you can visit the website now for more information on what's happening and sites near you.
