Cycling routes across Central Scotland will be among those to benefit from an extra £3.9million in Scottish Government investment.
Transport Secretary Michael Matheson has more than doubled funding for Scotland’s National Cycle Network to make it easier and safer for people to get out and about on their bikes and on foot.
The additional cash brings the total investment for 2018-19 to £6.9million, with part of the money due to be used to enhance existing NCN routes in Central Scotland.
Mr Matheson, the MSP for Falkirk West, said: “The Scottish Government has pledged record levels of funding for cycling and walking projects for the remainder of this parliamentary term as part of efforts to encourage people to get more active.
“The National Cycle Network already spans more than 2300 miles and Falkirk is at the heart of one of the major routes linking Edinburgh and Glasgow, with local paths taking cyclists to both the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies.
“This extra investment will support further development of the National Cycle Network, making it an even more attractive way to get around and helping to grow the cycle tourism sector.”
Grace Martin, deputy director at sustainable transport charity Sustrans Scotland, welcomed the cash windfall.
She said: “This additional funding will help create better connected communities and encourage people to walk and cycle more on the journeys they make every day.
“Sustrans will be releasing the results of its National Cycle Network review in October, which will help inform how the network is developed and improved in Scotland over the coming years.”
