Cairngorms: a wide range of wide views
A year after the Strathy reviewed a ground-breaking report on Cairngorm conflict, how does the author see things – and how is she seen?
Anthropologist Bonnie Vandesteeg’s insightful, impartial “Land for what? Land for whom?”, is still selling in local shops and trying to make sense of it all.
Her extensive research took place during 1999-2000, as battles raged over the construction of a funicular railway and the creation of a national park.
“I talked to hundreds of people, over how the issues would shape the future for those living here, how those from the ‘outside’ saw it, everyone so passionate to see their own view represented. It was such a critical time and so important to understand.
“The conflicts that existed at the time – between livelihood, conservation and recreation – haven’t gone away but have emerged in different ways on similar sorts of issues.
“The role of the national park and its various aims is still debated. Should it prioritise conservation or livelihood/development? On a recent visit, many told me the park prioritises development over conservation, benefitting those who already have money.
“That was a reference to many of the new housing developments, an issue now even more than during my research.
“I welcome all comments on what has changed. I was contacted by the RSPB at Abernethy who stressed how they are engaging with the community, working closely with Nethy Bridge Community Council – the person I spoke to says he very much wants to build bridges between different types of land users, in particular farmers.
“I still want to hear from others about what has or has not changed. I always hoped people would read the book and get a greater understanding and empathy for the sense of place of other people, but I’m not sure this has happened.
“Reviewer Neil Reid wrote that probably no-one would read the book without feeling that ‘their’ views had not been properly represented, or that the ‘other side’ had been let off the hook. That’s almost inevitable, but in its entirety the book makes a positive contribution to future debates through enabling a better understanding of different protagonists’ views, fears and hopes…
“One local reader has told me: ‘At the end of the day the object of your work is to look at things from all aspects and angles and form some balanced conclusions. That won’t sit well with some who can’t see things from others points of view.’
“Is it inevitable that people with different priorities will end up in conflict? We all have to share and work alongside each other within the natural environment.”
"Land for What? Land for Whom? Senses of Place and Conflict in the Scottish Highlands" (356pp) is published by Stormy Petrel at £7.99
