Monday (19 August) saw the official opening of significant improvements to two sections of National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 1 in Angus, enhancing safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
The Monifieth Path project has transformed a previously narrow, partially lit and sandy road into a new, segregated route for residents and visitors to walk, wheel and cycle along. The new path runs parallel to the road and connects seamlessly with the Broughty Ferry to Monifieth path at Marine Drive, making it easier and safer than ever to travel actively in the area.
In Carnoustie, the project has created a new traffic-free path, replacing a former on-road section of the route, as well as improving 1.2kms of surfacing between the East Coast Railway Line and Carnoustie Golf Course.
The NCN route has been slightly realigned and now runs along the road to the rear of the starters hut for The Burnside Course and onto Links Parade, which is now exclusively open to non-motorised users.
Included in the works were the planting of 420 pollinating trees and the sowing of 13kg of wildflower seeds. These improvements were delivered in partnership with Carnoustie Golf Links Management Trust.
In a UK first, the new traffic signals over the Barry Burn work with Lidar technology. Here, people walking, wheeling and cycling are detected 25metres in advance of the crossing point where the signals are triggered to turn red, stopping vehicles and improving safety for those travelling actively.
Both projects were backed by funding from the Scottish Government and developed and delivered through partnership between Angus Council and Sustrans.
Convener of Communities, Cllr Mark McDonald, said:
“These improvements are a significant step forward for active travel in Angus. The new paths in Monifieth and Carnoustie not only enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians but also promote a healthier and more sustainable way of travel in Angus.
“The improvements to the Monifieth path also bring better connectivity as people can travel to Dundee and onwards, opening up fantastic opportunities for both commuting and leisure, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the beautiful routes we have in Angus and beyond.
“I am proud of the collaborate efforts that have made these projects a reality.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:
“I’m pleased that people and communities can now benefit from the National Cycle Network improvements at Monifieth and Carnoustie.
“Over £1.15 million from the Scottish Government has supported these improvements, making it easier for more people to walk, wheel and cycle for shorter everyday journeys and for leisure.
“In doing so, we’re removing barriers to healthier, happier and more sustainable active travel across Angus – helping people save money and helping them to take climate action.”
Karen McGregor, Director at Sustrans Scotland, added:
“The projects at Carnoustie and Monifieth are making walking, wheeling and cycling in Angus easier, safer and more accessible than ever.
“Improvements to the existing National Cycle Network Route 1 have not only created more segregated spaces which are protected from traffic, but also increased connectivity with the wider active travel network, as well as public transport hubs.
“We are delighted to celebrate these achievements with the local community and hope that this will give more residents and visitors to the area the confidence to make healthier and more sustainable choices for their everyday journeys”.