A WARD councillor has backed a petition by the community to speed up the process of building the Helensburgh to Dumbarton cycle path.
More than 1,600 people have signed the petition seeking faster progress on the proposed project, following the death of cyclist Colin McCourt, from Dumbarton, on the A814 west of Cardross in November.
And Helensburgh and Lomond South SNP councillor Richard Trail has branded the work by the petition organisers “a marvellous effort” and hopes that it will prompt action.
The petition has now been sent to Argyll and Bute Council, walking and cycling charity Sustrans, and Scottish Government transport secretary Michael Matheson.
The Helensburgh to Dumbarton cycle path has been planned since the early part of the 21st century.
Councillor Trail said: “I applaud the initiative by the community in raising this petition. It is a marvellous effort and I hope that it does get the attention it deserves from the transport minister.
READ MORE: 'Entire generation have missed out on active travel opportunities', say petitioners
“Cycle paths have been the poor cousins of the transport portfolio. The recent growth in active travel and cycling in particular is good news for the health of both young and old.
"It is time the mechanism for delivering cycle paths is overhauled. The current system appears designed to slow the whole process to a crawl.
“I wish the petitioners every success in bringing a fresh appreciation of their importance to the top of government.”
A covering note with the online petition expressed the desire among the community to see the cycle path completed with no further delays.
It is forecast to be completed during the 2026/27 financial year although it is unclear what effect, if any, the Covid-19 pandemic will have on the projected timescale.
The note says: “The cycle path is a much-needed safe environment for cyclists, walkers, horse riders and users of mobility equipment to travel between the towns and villages situated along the northern shores of the River Clyde.
READ MORE: Petition calls for 'no further delays' to Helensburgh-Dumbarton cycle path
“Cardross village in particular has no direct active transport route out of the village other than the main road between Dumbarton and Helensburgh (A814).
“The A814 (60mph speed limit) is a narrow road, with relatively few straights for vehicles to pass cyclists and walkers safely.
“Many that travel on this road regularly have a near-miss story to tell and this was tragically emphasised in November.
“Following the recent upsurge in people walking and cycling, it is imperative that this cycle path is completed without any further delays.
“The cycle path will protect vulnerable cyclists and walkers and provide a safe route for all ages to partake in active travel between Helensburgh and Dumbarton, including enabling young people to develop healthy commuting habits.”
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