HOPES were voiced for a “walkers welcome” scheme at a Wee County beauty spot.

The comments from Councillor Donald Balsillie came during last week’s Place Committee meeting when a discussion over public toilets at Gartmorn Dam ensued.

Papers relating to a management plan on the table said that “there are no public toilets” at the dam, where the old visitor centre is now a café.

When Cllr Tina Murphy sought clarity, officers explained the café itself does have toilets, but it is up to owners to decide whether they only allow paying customers or the public in general.

Cllr Balsillie, who seconded the document, did say the Ranger Service and the local authority will have to work in partnership with community groups to deliver the plans.

Regarding the provision of toilets, he said it was “time we take forward a walkers welcome scheme”.

Officers said rangers are looking to address the issue of public facilities and Cllr Martha Benny told the chamber she was hoping to see better signage for visitors to the area.