A cyclist has admitted he has risked 'life and limb' on roads south of Ayr as part of a video campaigning for a new active travel route.
A short documentary could pave the way for a new link between Ayr and Girvan by repurposing an old railway track connecting the two towns.
The Culzean Way would cut out hair raising journeys for active travel users including cyclists, runners and even horse riders.
And thanks to the documentary by world renowned cyclist and film maker, Markus Stitz, active travel organisation South Ayrshire Paths Initiative (SAPI) are confident their dream is closer to reality.
Stuart Bates of South Ayrshire Paths Initiative told Ayrshire Live: “The film premiered a month ago at the Cutty Sark and since then the feedback has been great. For us this is the very start of the process but it is a long term project, it is something that will take years to complete.
“The first hurdle is getting the funding from Sustrans and we’re confident we have the support of South Ayrshire Council and Ayrshire Roads Alliance.
“The film showcased the huge potential for Ayrshire. It will deliver such a great coastal route for the region and it shows it can be used for walking, wheels and even horse riders.”
The film delivers a powerful message about the safety aspect of the Culzean Way with cyclists currently forced to go along the hazardous coastal route.
Markus gathered key contributors for the documentary with cyclists and horse riders having their say.
Ron Ireland, a founding member of SAPI, says: “When I arrived in Alloway six or seven years ago, I was very disappointed immediately that I couldn’t cycle anywhere south of Ayr, without risking life and limb on busy roads.”
Nicola Burns, a local horse rider, explains: “I’ve owed horses for over 30 years and have encountered the various issues that come alongside taking a horse onto the road."
She adds: “It’s become more of a problem to be honest after traffic has increased.”
Ayr GP Dr Calum Dobbie also shares his thoughts in the film explaining how the Covid pandemic saw a rise in people becoming more active.
Film maker Markus attended the grand premier of the Culzean Way and Stuart has praised the work of the German-born influencer.
Stuart added: “It’s been great to work with Markus. He’s world renowned, he just has such an incredible enthusiasm for bike routes. In his latest book the first chapter is all dedicated to an Ayrshire cycle route. He is very positive about working with us and he is a great ambassador for the Culzean Way.”
Ayrshire Roads Alliance have backed the Culzean Way proposals.
Kevin Braidwood, Head of Roads at Ayrshire Roads Alliance, said: “ARA supports this initiative and is in the process of making a funding bid to Sustrans.”
You can watch the film here.
Read next:
- Scots whisky giants are given green light for new distillery operation in Ayrshire
- Eyesore site next to Ayrshire houses to be turned into car wash facility
- Name change and £500,000 makeover for popular bar after takeover
- Timeline on new Ayrshire super school unveiled as pupils set for post-summer holiday entry
- 'Negotiations' ongoing as cinema chain eyes up Ayr Odeon following shock closure
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter
