Active transportation infrastructure links up Hawick's neighborhoods, fostering connections among local communities
Hawick, a Borders town, has welcomed the arrival of a new Active Travel Network, a significant addition to the town's landscape. This project, delivered in partnership with Scottish Borders Council, is part of the broader Hawick Flood Protection Scheme and has been funded by the Scottish Government via Transport Scotland, to the tune of £12.6 million.
The Active Travel Network, a Places for Everyone project, has also received funding of £1.3 million from the Scottish Government. The network stretches across 7km of widened shared-use paths, connecting many areas of Hawick, from Weensland in the north-east to Volunteer Park in the south-west.
The new network includes not only the paths but also accessible ramps and strategic footbridges, such as the new footbridge at Weensland. Three narrow crossings in Hawick have been replaced with new 4m wide bridges, making the town's infrastructure more accommodating for pedestrians and cyclists. The Weensland Bridge, too, is part of the Active Travel Network.
The improvements have not only made getting around town easier but also healthier, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone in Hawick. For instance, Daisy, a P7 pupil from Trinity Primary, has increased her cycling due to the new paths. She finds it better for the environment and less busy for other children. Daisy also walks to school, a choice she finds more suitable, as it provides a safer space for young people to cycle without traffic.
The new Active Travel Network also improves links between schools, businesses, and local amenities in Hawick. With the new network, locals have realistic options to switch out local car journeys for walking or cycling. This shift towards active travel not only benefits the environment but also promotes a healthier lifestyle.
In addition to the practical benefits, the new network has also created new green spaces in Hawick. Common Haugh, Wee Haugh, and a Biodiversity Park at Weensland are just a few examples. These new parks have benches and landscaping features, making them welcoming places for people to spend time together. Wildflower planting and over 2,500 new trees are helping nature to thrive in these new spaces.
All in all, the new Active Travel Network in Hawick is a significant step towards a more sustainable, healthier, and more connected town. It's a testament to the power of collaboration and investment in infrastructure that benefits both the environment and the community.
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