IMPROVEMENTS are on track at an Inverclyde beauty spot with work starting on improving a coastal path.
The route from Lunderston Bay, near Gourock, towards Inverkip will be widened to three metres and resurfaced to make it more accessible. It is currently a narrow, stony, track and not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Work started today to expand an initial 1.1-kilometre stretch.
The National Cycle Network Route 753 Lunderston Bay to Inverkip project is backed by £330,000 from the Scottish Government and developed and delivered through partnership between Inverclyde Council, landowners Ardgowan Estate and active travel organisation Sustrans.
Work is expected to last three months and there will be a temporary diversion route in place along the A770 Cloch Road footpath with vegetation cut back to provide a clearer route.
More sections of path, as far as Kip Marina, will be upgraded, subject to availability of funding.
Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said: “Lunderston Bay is one of our most popular locations for people from near and far to visit and take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the great outdoors.
“We have invested significantly in Lunderston Bay in the last two years – over half a million pounds – to improve the facilities there and install a fantastic ship-themed, accessible playpark, which has proven very popular.
“The existing coastal path is also very well used but it is no longer fit for purpose so we have managed to secure grant funding to allow us to deliver further improvements to Lunderston Bay and make this path accessible for all.”
Emilia Hanna, head of programme for National Cycle Network, said: “This project is not only going to help more visitors to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Lunderston Bay but it will also provide a vital link to local amenities and the nearby town of Gourock.
“The evidence shows that when we give people safer opportunities to walk, wheel and cycle, away from traffic, we save lives. Investing in our traffic-free routes along the National Cycle Network also boosts the local economy and gives even more people the confidence to make healthier, more sustainable choices for their journeys.
“Also, protecting this route against coastal erosion will mean locals and visitors alike can safely enjoy the path for years and years to come.”
