South Ayrshire scoops top transport award

May 14 2008 Ayrshire Post

PEDAL power has landed South Ayrshire a top award.

For the efforts of council chiefs to promote cycling and walking earned them a coveted Scottish Transport Award.

New cycle routes and bike training for kids are just some of the initiatives introduced across the county in the past year.

Council workers have even being encouraged to leave their cars at home in favour of cycling or walking.

In fact South Ayrshire Council installed bike lockers at some council buildings to make sure that staff can leave their gear safe and secure.

Councillor Peter Convery said: “South Ayrshire has excellent cycling and walking routes that can be enjoyed by local people and visitors.

“We are continuing to expand the routes and that is why we have compiled a new South Ayrshire cycle map that shows all the routes that were in existence from February this year.

“Cycling Scotland have just completed their national assessment and again South Ayrshire has come out very well, clearly demonstrating its commitment to developing and promoting cycling.”

South Ayrshire is one of the best local authorities in Scotland for providing cycling facilities.

And a new Alloway to Burton cycle route was officially opened by Councillor Convery this week.

He said: “Walking and cycling are environmentally friendly and sustainable ways of travelling.

“The cycle routes in South Ayrshire can be used to get to and from work, during leisure time or to keep fit.

“I am particularly pleased to see that the pupils from Alloway Primary are enthusiastic about cycling and I hope that they continue to cycle throughout their lives.”

To find out more about cycle routes in South Ayrshire log on to www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk