New £150k coastal travel route is on track
A COASTAL travel route linking Inverclyde to the National Cycle Network is on track thanks to a £150,000 project.
Work has started on a new active travel route between the Beacon Arts Centre and Cartsburn.
Once finished, it will link the west and east sides of Inverclyde and become part of the National Cycle Network 75 (N75).
The route will be open to walkers, cyclists and other forms of active travel, including wheelchair – manual and electric – and mobility scooters.
The project is being led by Inverclyde Council with funding from active travel organisation Sustrans Scotland and support from Peel L&P, which owns part of the land the route goes through and has granted permission for its use.
Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said: “We have a magnificent waterfront with such beautiful scenery, attractions and businesses along the way so we should be doing all we can to make it as accessible to as many people as possible and encourage more people to discover Inverclyde.
“This new active travel from the Beacon along to Cartsburn is another piece of the puzzle linking this crucial section in the heart of Inverclyde onto the National Cycle Network Route 75 and it’s thanks to positive partnership working between the council, our funders Sustrans and landowners Peel.
“With more people choosing active travel and looking for places to explore, this will be an excellent addition to what we have to offer once it is completed.”
Work got underway recently and is expected to last 12 weeks.
The estimated construction cost is £150k.
Chris Brace, network delivery manager at Sustrans Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to see work commence on this important link along National Cycle Network Route 75 in Greenock, supported by funding from Transport Scotland.
“Sustrans want to make walking, wheeling and cycling along the National Cycle Network safe, attractive and accessible for everyone. This project is a great example of how we’re working with our partners to make it easier for people to make healthier, happier and more sustainable choices to get to the places they want to go to.
“The success of our work with Inverclyde Council last year which told the story of the area’s past, present and future through a series of artworks along the waterfront really highlighted the local enthusiasm for getting active and exploring Greenock.
“We hope this new project builds on this momentum and we look forward to continuing to work with the council to make walking, wheeling and cycling safer, easier and more accessible for everyone in Inverclyde.”
Brian Lavalette, property director for Scotland at Peel L&P, said: “We are fully committed at Peel L&P to supporting the drive sustainable and inclusive growth for the town, the region and Scotland. The new coastal travel route will be a key driver in connecting up our vibrant and emerging Greenock Harbours destination with other communities whilst supporting waterside wellbeing and healthy living.
“Working in partnership will be key to us delivering this new coastal route for the local community and we are very proud to be working with Inverclyde Council and the other partners to unlock this opportunity for our local communities to enjoy.”
For more information about cycling, cycle routes and other things to do and see in Inverclyde, visit www.discoverinverclyde.com.