£330k coastal path project
IMPROVEMENTS are on track at an Inverclyde beauty spot after work started on a new coastal path.
The existing route from Lunderston Bay, near Gourock, towards Inverkip will be widened and resurfaced to make it more accessible.
It is currently a narrow, stoney, single track path which is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Work started on Monday to expand an initial 1.1 kilometres of path to a width of three metres and to install a new surface from Lunderston Bay towards Inverkip.
The National Cycle Network Route 753 Lunderston Bay to Inverkip project is backed by £330,000 of funding from the Scottish Government and developed and delivered through partnership between Inverclyde Council, landowners Ardgowan Estate and Sustrans.
Work is expected to last three months and there will be a temporary diversion route in place along the A770 footpath.
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 – more than half a million pounds – to improve the facilities there and install a fantastic shipthemed, accessible play park, 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 the 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.”
It is hoped that future works will take place on the more sections of path down to Kip Marina, subject to the availability of funding.
A temporary diversion will be in place onto the footway of the A770, where vegetation will be cut back to provide a clearer route.
The closure of the coastal footpath will allow for the improvement works to be carried out quicker.