I was out walking yesterday, from Caldercruix to Airdrie via the Lilly Loch. The path from Hillend to the Lilly Loch initially uses Right of Way SM15 (Hillend to Wester Bracco). This is also partially covered by Core Path 209/210.
Work is taking place at the dam at the east end of the loch, and due to this Core Path 210/ROW SM15 is blocked completely at NS 824 668. There is no signposting for any alternative route. It is possible to drop down on to the loch bed and walk around, however if the ground is exceptionally wet I wouldn’t recommend this.
Due to the drainage of the water the footbridge at NS 824 665 has collapsed (see photo above). Core Path 209 crosses this bridge, and would have been a potential diversionary route, but can no longer be used as such. You can attempt to cross the burn, but this can be tricky, and instead a longer diversion may be necessary.
Scotways and North Lanarkshire Council are now aware of both of these blockages. Under the Land Reform Act (Scotland) 2003, there should have been consultation with the local authority Access Forum and and signage provided to notify users of the closure and diversionary routes. There’s no sign of this being done though, and with both closures likely to be in place for some considerable time, the proper signage may be provided in the near future.
The Airdrie Rambler 