Travel vision mapped out
Discover how project aims to transform travel
A public drop-in event is being held today (Wednesday) in the Cowane Centre to showcase designs for the Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling project.
The project aims to transform two key transport routes in Stirling so they are easier and safer to travel around on foot and by bike, improving routes from the city centre to Forth Valley College, and from Stirling Station to Stirling University.
Members of the public can comment on the concept designs at the drop-in between 1.30-6.30pm. For those who are unable to attend, the drawings will be available at www.walkcyclelivestirling. commonplace.is.
Stirling Council is working with Sustrans Scotland and Forth Environment Link to create more accessible, attractive and safer environments for walking and cycling.
They say that, as well as creating a new active travel network, Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling will reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and create more dynamic public spaces along both routes, helping to make the city a better place for people to live, work and visit.
Environment and housing convener Councillor Jim Thomson said: “These ambitious plans are not just about bringing new cycle lanes to the city – we are committed to helping change how people in our communities travel and to improving our neighbourhoods.
“The provision of walking and cycling routes will have a positive impact on the environment and carbon emissions. It will also allow everyone to get around independently, including children and people with disabilities, while we also hope to achieve a reduction in both traffic volume and speed in our local neighbourhoods.”
Vice convener Councillor Danny Gibson added: “We are keen that the community are as involved as possible in the delivery of these plans.”
Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling is part funded by the Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Community Links PLUS competition. Additional funding for the project is to be drawn from the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal and contributions from local development.
Route 1 - Stirling Station to Stirling University - is expected to improve connections from Stirling’s communities living north of the river to the city centre and other key destinations; improve walking and cycling for visitors between the city centre (including Stirling Castle), Stirling Bridge, the river and the Wallace Monument; and improve the quality of the National Cycle Network.
Route 2 - city centre to Forth Valley College - is aimed at improving the look and feel of streets including Upper Craigs, Dumbarton Road, and Albert Place.
The proposals include resurfacing and widening pavements and creating safer crossing points, alongside protected cycle lanes. The route will also bring residents and visitors to FVC and draw people from the city centre to destinations including the Albert Halls, Smith Art Gallery and King’s Knot, as well as provide a walking and cycling link to FVC from the city centre.