Who we are
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What is the PLMA?
The PLMA is an association of farmers and land managers who are in and around the Pentlands Regional Park area. They represent the 80% of the park area that is in private ownership.
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Why was the PLMA formed?
The PLMA was formed in October 2020 by land managers within the Pentland Hills Regional Park in response to the significant rise in irresponsible access problems impacting member individuals and businesses.
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What does the PLMA hope to achieve?
The PLMA focusses on making the Pentlands a better place for those who live and work within it and also for those who visit.
What we do
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What activities with the PLMA undertake?
The activities of the PLMA focus on:
- representation - ensuring those who own the land area are represented
- education - ensuring visitors understand that the Pentlands are a working environment and what responsible access means
- improving infrastructure - as visitor numbers have increased funding has decreased. Much of the infrastructure (paths etc.) is becoming degraded.
- improving the environment - members work together to undertake joint biodiversity improvement measures
- cooperating with others - working with the PHRP, Friends of the Pentlands and others to achieve better outcomes
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Does the PLMA want to stop public access?
No.
The PLMA wants to engage in activities that encourage responsible public access and create a better environment for all.
Problems and solutions
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What problems do PLMA members face?
Problems include:
- weekly dog attacks on livestock
- daily littering
- daily dog fouling
- daily verbal abuse
- land degradation through path erosion
- disturbance and degradation of fragile habitats
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What are the solutions to these problems?
Education – many visitors have little knowledge of the countryside.
Encouraging a culture of mutual respect where irresponsible access is not acceptable.
Funding infrastructure and rangers within the PHRP. Funding has dropped steadily in recent years and must be found to address the increasing problems.