New way to plan routes

A London Undergroundstyle map showing Scotland’s network of walking and cycling tracks has been published.

It provides an at-aglance guide for those wishing to plan routes between towns and cities or across areas of the country.

Stirling bike and walking paths between the city, Doune, Callander and up to Inversnaid and Aberfoyle are illustrated, as is the route from Alloa to South Queensferry.

The map has been produced by Scottish Natural Heritage and is part of National Walking and Cycling Network’s (NWCN’s) programme of work to connect Scotland’s paths across the country.

SNH’s partners in the project are Scottish Canals and Sustrans and they have been working with councils and route managers to compile the map.

There are currently about 6400 kilometres of trails for walking, cycling, horse-riding and canoeing across Scotland.

This includes Scotland’s Great Trails, the National Cycling Network and Scottish Canals Network.

NWCN plans to extend this network by 1750 kilometres through 50 separate projects over the next 20 years, by creating new routes and joining up the missing links.

It is also aimed to upgrade connecting routes, encourage multiuse of paths and create links with public transport.

SNH chairman Ian Ross, said: “Our walking and cycling tube map is an easy way to start planning your next journey – whether it’s a trip between two towns or a week-long cycling or walking holiday.”

The tube map is available at http://www. snh.gov.uk/enjoyingthe-outdoors/where-togo/routes-to-explore/ walking-and-cyclingnetwork/