The Black Isle village of Culbokie in the Highlands has marked the official opening of its local active travel improvements. A celebratory gathering, which included residents, school staff, pupils, parents, project funders and council staff, took place on Thursday 3 September at Culbokie Green.

The project, costing in excess of £1.4 million, was fully funded through the Scottish Government’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund.

Penny Edwards, from Culbokie Community Trust, said:

“This route has been a long time in the making and we are delighted to see it now in daily use. The community initiated this scheme quite a few years back. We progressed it with support from Sustrans – now the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust – and finally Highland Council took over to see it through construction.

“The project has improved existing footways, constructed new footways, installed new zebra crossings and improved public spaces. Early data shows that car speeds are lower in the village than before which is really welcome: residents have long been concerned about drivers going too fast.

“We’re also very grateful to Strath Civils for the lovely new benches, which were sorely needed.”

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport Stephen Flynn added:

“I’m pleased that Scottish Government funding of more than £1.4 million has helped deliver these improvements in Culbokie, making it safer and easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys.

“Investment in active travel helps people save money, improve their health and reduce transport emissions.

“That is why we are investing £226 million in active and sustainable travel this year – helping to create safer and more accessible routes in communities, like we see in Culbokie, right across the country.”

(Picture: The Highlands Council)