I am the councillor for Ward 2 which stretches from Fintry to Strathblane. There are a dozen delightful villages scattered across the area connected by country roads which leave much to be desired – but that’s another story!
To walk, cycle or e-bike along them means risking injury or even death. We all realise this and so we don’t do it. The notion of cycling with my grandchildren from Balfron (where I live) to Killearn (where they live) fills me with dread!
Yet think how pleasant it would be if we had cycle paths and walkways criss-crossing the whole area, connecting the villages. It would certainly encourage people to be out and about and enjoying our countryside instead of taking their car and scurrying from one place to the next.
I have 2 sons and 2 grandchildren who live in Switzerland. Hence I have seen at first hand the benefit of such a network. My youngest son e-bikes to work, a distance of 30kms from Thun to Bern, along a cycle path that takes him into the city. My 15 year old grandson cycles to school, a distance of 4kms, in complete safety along one of the many cycle paths to be found in Thun.
Remember this is a crowded country with roads like ours yet they have still managed to make it work.
So what are the benefits?
1. Fewer cars on the roads therefore a greener environment.
2. Enjoyable exercise hence a healthier population.
3. Exercise that can start at a young age and is fun for the family to do together.
4. How about establishing kiosks at strategic points where snacks and cold drinks can be bought while at the same time bicycles and e-bikes can be hired for one way or return journeys? I think that would boost our holiday visitors while at the same time employing a few people – students spring to mind. Incidentally, I have seen it work in Switzerland.
I am sure you can think of other benefits. With so many, why aren’t we working, collectively, on the project now? The easy answer is there is no joined-up thinking.
I’ll leave you with that thought.
Written by Cllr Paul Henke
Killearn Active Travel 