At the meeting of the Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee (EEC) on 12th January 2016 Members will be asked to agree to bid for funding from Sustrans in order to improve active travel links, particularly in Dumfries and Dalbeattie. Sustrans have advised that Community Links funding is available, with bids to be submitted by 12 February 2016.
Having previously considered plans at the EEC committee in February 2016, bids are proposed for works in Moffat Road, Dumfries (link to Dumfries High School and to Marchfield development) and for Church Street / Solway Street, Annan (signal control of junction incorporating pedestrian and cycle provision and links on either side).
Also previously identified, in May 2014, was a review of the potential for walking and cycling connections in Dalbeattie. This has now been undertaken, focusing on links to the planned new school and the recently opened Craignair Health Centre.
Additional works are being being considered covering a significant part of Dalbeattie to create active travel links between the new school and the health centre and Dalbeattie town centre and all housing south of the A711, Craignair Street/John Street. These works will include:
• The route between the health centre and High Street via Urr Road, Kerr Park and Burn Street;
• The route between the new school and High Street via Urr Road , Kerr park and Burn Street;
• The route between the new school and health centre and Port Street and south of there.
Preliminary consultation has already been carried out on these possible works with Local Members and community representatives via the ‘Healthy Dalbeattie’ group. It is recommended that Members submit a bid for delivery of these works in financial year 2016-17 with a view to submitting further bids in the future, as opportunities arise.
Councillors will also look at the proposed project of a shared use path at Eastfield Road/Rosevale Street, Dumfries, which already has completed design work in place, but is unlikely to be delivered during the current financial year.
Chair of the Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Colin Smyth said: “By developing active transport routes and reviewing our local walking and cycling connections we are increasing accessibility for the community and encouraging healthy and active lifestyles. This is particularly important for routes to local schools. We have been successful in the past when securing match funding for such projects from Sustrans and Councillors will have the opportunity to build on this success and consider further schemes ”
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