Chance for cycling fans to have their say in online survey

Residents in Perthshire have an opportunity to take part in an online cycling survey.

The feasibility study for Blackford Paths Network is geared to gauge the views of those interested in cycling in the area.

Funding has been granted in order for the study to be carried out and this has been welcomed by Blackford Community Council.

Janet Law, chairwoman of Blackford Community Council, said: “Everybody nowadays is keen to encourage low-carbon travel, walking and cycling.

“The community council is very pleased to have been awarded grants – from the Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership (Tactran) and the Climate Challenge Development Fund – to find the best and safest route suitable for cycling and walking between Blackford and Auchterarder.

“Blackford is cut off by the A9 to the south and the railway to the north, posing problems for walkers and cyclists. The path along the side of the A9 is very close to passing HGVs and traffic going at 70mph.

“Gleneagles rail station has been improved dramatically but there is currently no adequate safe and direct cycle route to the station.”

Katharine Huggett, community council paths officer, added: “We’d like to encourage everyone who is interested in cycling or walking in the Blackford area to give us their views on the need for a well-signed, safe and properlysurfaced cycle route.”

The survey will start a threemonth feasibility study.

Copies of the survey will be distributed to Blackford households from April 18. It’s available by visiting www.blackfordcommunitycouncil.org.uk.