Over £40 million is to be invested in upgrading cycling and walking projects in Scotland.

Infrastructure improvements will be carried out on more than 150 projects as part of Sustrans Community Links programme.

The organisation has awarded over £18m through the programme during the coming financial year.

Applicant organisations have to match fund the allocation - meaning a total of £41.5m will be invested in cycling and walking projects.

The improvements will make it easier for people to be more active - bringing significant benefits to health and well-being as well as improving air quality and access to local businesses, public transport hubs and major tourist attractions.


A selection of larger scale exemplar projects will be designed ready for construction in 2017.

In Stirling, the train station forecourt will be remodelled to create a safer space for people on foot and bike, while in Glasgow the junction of Victoria Bridge and Clyde Street will be redesigned to give people cycling and walking priority.

City centre streets in Edinburgh are also being redeveloped to provide more space for pedestrians.

Humza Yousaf, Minister for Transport and Islands, said: "The high quality projects awarded Community Links funding this year are the latest examples of what can be achieved when working in partnership with local authorities and communities."

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