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Vacationing actively is restoring vitality to the coastal town of Ardrossan

A cooperative endeavor between our site and North Ayrshire Council led to the introduction of a traffic-free route for walking, biking, and wheeled transportation - an important aspect of a substantial urban revitalization project aimed at enhancing the seaside town of Ardrossan.

Coastal town of Ardrossan experiencing a revitalization through increased pedestrian and cycling...
Coastal town of Ardrossan experiencing a revitalization through increased pedestrian and cycling activities

Vacationing actively is restoring vitality to the coastal town of Ardrossan

In the picturesque coastal town of Ardrossan, a significant new project is underway to regenerate the town, with the unveiling of a new traffic-free path as a key milestone. This development, part of the Ardrossan Coastal Quarter, is a collaborative effort between various organisations, including our website, North Ayrshire Council, and Transport Scotland's trunk roads team.

The new path, part of the National Cycle Network (NCN) 753, wraps around the shoreline, offering a smooth underfoot journey with benches along the way, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Most of the route is segregated, ensuring cyclists and pedestrians can move freely and safely.

The new link from the Harbour may help encourage visitors to spend time in Ardrossan, appreciating its coastline and supporting local businesses before their onward trip. The improvements link directly to Ardrossan Harbour train station and ferry terminal, providing sustainable transport options for longer journeys without the need for driving.

Construction of the path was carried out by RJ Mcleod, and the funding for this project came from the Scottish Government, via a National Cycle Network Development programme, to the tune of £1,533,000. Sustrans collaborated with North Ayrshire Council to create the new low-traffic path for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and cyclists, which was opened to the public in August 2021.

Local resident Chris believes the new path will be a "boost to the community," and a benefit for older people and those with less mobility. Another resident, Harry, a local school pupil, uses the new path for daily activities like visiting his grandmother's house and shopping, finding it peaceful and therapeutic.

The area where the new path is located was previously derelict, part of an old oil refinery site. With the Ardrossan Coastal Path now open, it puts transport choice at the heart of the development, replacing a poor on-road section of the National Cycle Network Route 753, improving safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

The new development, known as the Ardrossan Coastal Quarter, will include a new education campus, residential housing, and businesses, making the path essential in connecting people to education, local businesses, and their homes. The Ardrossan Coastal Path is part of the National Cycle Network, which celebrates its 30th birthday this year.

This new development in Ardrossan is a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership working, transforming a once derelict area into a vibrant and accessible route for walking, wheeling, and cycling, while boosting the local community and promoting sustainable travel.

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