An ambitious new travel route could see the creation of a 10 mile path linking Ayr to Barassie.
That’s the hope from South Ayrshire Council and Ayrshire Roads Alliance who look to introduce The Ayrshire Link, a designated safe and accessible route from Ayr Esplanade to Barassie for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users.
Described as “more than just a walking and cycle path”, it is hoped that the 10 mile route will encourage active travelling to work, improve health and wellbeing, connect communities and “become a new tourist destination”.
Cllr Bob Pollock, the council’s Economic Development Portfolio Holder, said the multi-use path would give active travel in the area “a huge boost” as the current offerings are “far from ideal”.
He said: “At present anyone walking, running, or wheeling between Ayr and Barassie does so on a mixture of paths, pavements and roads which is far from ideal.”
David Manson, Special Project Officer at Ayrshire Roads Alliance, said: “Active travel is not just about improving wellbeing but also how we make every day journeys as easy and accessible as possible. This can help improve the sustainability of our neighbourhoods and spaces to create economic and social value.
“Ayrshire’s scenery is renowned and a terrific asset for all to see and enjoy and The Ayrshire Link will encourage visitors to come and spend time in the area and enjoy what we have to offer.”
The proposed route has still to be decided, with public consultations inviting people to view initial plans and provide their feedback.
The drop-in sessions will take place at:
•Prestwick Community Centre on Caerlaverock Road on Saturday, March 25 from 11am until 2pm
•The Citadel Leisure Centre, South Harbour Street, Ayr on Thursday, March 30 from 5pm until 8pm
•Walker Hall, South Beach, Troon on Tuesday, April 4 from 5pm until 8pm
•An online event will also be held on Wednesday, April 19 from 6pm until 7pm and people can register at www.theayrshirelink.com.
Heathfield Primary P6 pupils Amy, Ruby, Nico and Leon and Ayrshire College visual communications students Lewis Dunbar, Kenzie Millen and Elina Suberte joined Rory MacColl from the Active Travel Hub, David Manson from ARA and Cllr Bob Pollock, to launch the new project.
The Ayrshire College students named the new route, The Ayrshire Link, and will be working on the project over the coming months to design new branding.
Cllr Bob Pollock, the council’s Economic Development Portfolio Holder, added: “It’s vital that the views of locals are taken into consideration to determine a suitable route, so I would encourage people to get involved with the consultation process and have their say.”
Following consultations, the design team will produce detailed proposals for submission to South Ayrshire Council for planning. If successful, it is anticipated that work will start in 2025 and take two to three years to complete.
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