Enhancements at Canalside in West Edinburgh are streamlining local commutes
In West Edinburgh, the National Cycle Network Route 75 has undergone significant transformations, thanks to a partnership-driven project funded by the Scottish Government. The improvements, totalling over £900,000, aim to enhance accessibility, safety, and year-round usability for cyclists, pedestrians, and wheelchair users alike[1][2].
The project, part of a broader £188 million commitment by the Scottish Government towards active and sustainable transport for 2025–26, has seen the Union Canal towpath resurfaced with Scottish whin stone paving, creating a smooth new surface[1]. Additionally, extra lighting has been installed along the route to ensure safety for towpath users and boaters[1][2].
Key partners in the project included Sustrans, Scottish Canals, and local authorities, who collaboratively delivered these enhancements to this crucial link connecting West Edinburgh with the city centre[1][2][3].
The benefits of these improvements are manifold: - Safer and more comfortable travel for a diverse range of users, including cyclists and wheelchair users. - Encouragement of more local people to choose active, traffic-free travel modes for everyday journeys. - Contribution to environmental goals by facilitating reduced car use and lower emissions. - Support for sustainable transport infrastructure development consistent with government ambitions[1][3].
The path's previous condition, with a rough and uneven surface, insufficient lighting, and challenging terrain for cyclists and wheelchair users, has been addressed[4]. The improvements have made the path well-lit and fully accessible, making it safe and welcoming for year-round use[4].
Local residents, such as Rowan and his children, appreciate the scenic route and the opportunity to interact with nature[4]. Roxanne, another local, finds the smoother connection along the towpath safer for cyclists and more comfortable for parents using double buggies[4].
On Cycle to Work Day, the new Union Canal towpath was officially opened by National Cycle Network Director Carole Patrick, Senior Network Development Manager Neill Malone, and partners from Scottish Canals[4]. New power bollards have been installed as part of Scottish Canals' net zero commitments, providing charging to electric water craft[4].
The improvements to the canal towpath in the West of Edinburgh connect the National Cycle Network Route 75 with the city centre, enhancing accessibility and connectivity for all users[4]. The Scottish Government's investment in active and sustainable transport is a significant step towards achieving their ambition for more high-quality active travel infrastructure across Scotland.
[1] Scottish Government (2021). Active Travel: Safer Streets Fund. Retrieved from https://www.gov.scot/publications/active-travel-safer-streets-fund/ [2] Scottish Canals (2021). Union Canal towpath improvements. Retrieved from https://scottishcanals.co.uk/news/union-canal-towpath-improvements/ [3] Sustrans (2021). National Cycle Network. Retrieved from https://www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn [4] Edinburgh Evening News (2021). Union Canal towpath improvements complete. Retrieved from https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/union-canal-towpath-improvements-complete-4006099
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