Many paths across Scotland are to be significantly upgraded by hundreds of volunteers as Scotland’s walking charity gives out thousands of pounds to a range of community improvement projects.
Paths for All has awarded £90,000 worth of grants to 48 groups across Scotland, from South Ayrshire to Angus, who will transform neglected parts of their local path networks in the coming months.
As part of a Know Your Routes campaign, money will be used for wide-ranging work including structural improvements, installing signage, hiring tools or contractors, promoting hidden routes and improving biodiversity along path networks.
Funding has also been awarded to autism support agencies and youth groups to ensure everyone is able to comfortably and freely enjoy their local paths.
And, as the individual projects progress, everyone is being invited to keep up to date with the improvement work by using the hashtag #KnowYourRoutes.
Ian Findlay, Chief Officer at Paths for All said: “The work that these groups are doing has far more than local value – it’s work that will have a big impact on improving the physical, mental and social health of society.
“Paths and parks are so important when it comes to keeping us active, enjoying the outdoors and connecting with nature – not to mention how they benefit the environment and the air we breathe, too.
“But when the lighting is down or when a path has fallen into disrepair, they can often fall out of use.”
The projects will be carried out mainly by volunteers and charities and their work is expected to be finished by early 2019.
Ian added: “We have hundreds of very hardworking volunteers to thank for the great amount of work that will be taking place over the coming months who are dedicated to making sure that Scotland’s land is used sensitively and for the benefit of all.
“Over the years, doing this work, we’ve received very positive feedback from people whose day-to-day lives have improved as a result of these grants.
“The upgraded paths really build on community spirit as they’re more frequently used by commuters, dog walkers, joggers, children playing and people enjoying the simple but very important pleasure of just going for a walk.
“We’re excited to see the difference that will be made to paths across Scotland and know that a great number of communities will benefit.”
This year’s three grant schemes have been funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, Transport Scotland and the Scottish Government.
Last year, over £70,000 was given to 41 projects through two community path grant schemes.
Paths for All works with Scottish Government and 30 partners to support and deliver national policies, such as the National Walking Strategy and other ‘active travel’ initiatives
The Scottish charity awards thousands of pounds worth of grants to worthwhile projects that improve health, promote walking and improve environments for people to be active in.
