Time to ditch the car and take ‘a wee walk’

A pilot scheme aimed at getting people to put their best foot forward in Renfrewshire has been launched.

Scottish Government minister for active travel Patrick Harvie MSP gave his backing to the project which will try and get people to consider a step change to their travelling habits.

Four fictional characters will be inviting people in the area, Moray and Aberdeenshire to choose walking more often when they’re making short, local journeys.

A series of adverts on social media, outdoor posters and local radio stations will begin appearing advertising the ‘A Wee Walk Works Wonders’ campaign which, if successful, will be rolled out nationwide.

It’s hoped the message will encourage people to swap one or more of their regular car journeys each week to a short walk.

Mr Harvie said: “For those of us who have a choice when it comes to short, local trips, this campaign is about leaving the car behind and going on foot.

“Everyone making that choice is not only helping to reduce pollution and improve air quality but also making a positive choice which benefits their own physical and mental health.

“So, I hope people in Renfrewshire, Moray and Aberdeenshire will take inspiration from this colourful new campaign and we see the impact on everyday activities, whether it’s picking up children from school or popping out for a pint of milk.

“With concerns over both costs of living and inactive lifestyles on the rise, the campaign seeks to highlight the many benefits of walking for short journeys to local shops, stations, and other nearby destinations.

“By choosing to walk, Scots can improve their mental and physical wellbeing and save money on fuel and parking fees, as well as helping to reduce harmful emissions.”

‘A Wee Walk Works Wonders’ campaign manager Ros Browning said: “In Scotland, we’re often in the habit of jumping into the car, even just for short journeys of less than a kilometre, like doing the school run, visiting a friend, or popping to the corner shop.

“Our campaign aims to remind people that walking is a great choice for those regular daily trips. Not only is it really good for your body and mind, it will help you to save money too, as every journey adds up.

“It doesn’t have to be every trip, or every day – but regular short walks can be really beneficial, and even leaving the car at home once a week will make a difference.”

The campaign launched earlier this month and will run until the end of March.

For more information, visit: aweewalk.scot