Grants for community groups to improve cycle routes

Community groups can apply for funding towards artistic and visual improvements to their local National Cycle Network routes.

Grants of up to £5,000 are available from the ArtRoots Fund, funded by Transport Scotland and delivered by Sustrans Scotland. The fund seeks to empower local communities in making improvements on local routes to increase user confidence and make journeys on the National Cycle Network more enjoyable for everyone.

Examples of projects funded in 2018 include:

• ​East Haven Together celebrating the maritime heritage of their village through the installation of a stunning, chainsaw carved bench
• Scott Avenue Community Garden Group created a new community focal point for Bowling
• Young people from Craigmillar explored the possibilities of the National Cycle Network in their area though circus workshops and a glow parade

Wendy Murray of community group East Haven Together said:

"The chainsaw sculpture in East Haven has attracted enormous interest and an increase in visitor numbers. People now travel just to have their photograph taken with the artwork.

"The National Cycle Network provides an opportunity to showcase the very best communities have to offer, and residents should exploit this to the full.

 ​"Sustrans Scotland are able to offer lots of ideas and suggestions about actions for those interested in making the most of this amazing facility through the ArtRoots fund." ​

Interested community groups are encouraged to submit an expression of interest through the ArtRoots page of the Sustrans website or email cosmo.blake@sustrans.org.uk.