A popular local pathway around Loch Leven has received a significant upgrade after receiving funds from the Ian Findlay Path Fund. £76,690 was awarded to The Rural Access Committee for Kinross-shire (TRACKS) contributing to almost 50% of the overall project costs.
It was one of the first organisations to benefit from our £1.5m Ian Findlay Path Fund, which launched in August 2022. Completion of the project was celebrated in May, marking a milestone for both the community and our team..
The trail improvement initiative has not only revitalised the path's surface but has also had a positive impact on local businesses and services who use the trail. The upgraded section of the Loch Leven Heritage Trail extends from The Pier, Kinross to Loch Leven's Larder, and it also coincides with the National Cycle Network Route 1.
Speaking about the successful completion of the project, Cllr. Willie Robertson, Chair of TRACKS, said:
The funding from the Ian Findlay Path Fund has made a tangible impact on the trail's upgrade from Kinross to Loch Leven's Larder.
The importance of this resource to our local economy and community cannot be overstated, and we're grateful for the understanding and support shown by Paths for All.
The Loch Leven Heritage Trail, known for its all-abilities accessibility, was originally established as a circular route around Loch Leven in 2014.
Designed to accommodate people of all ages and abilities, including walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users, and those on motorised scooters; the trail has become an invaluable asset to the local community and an attraction for visitors.
The revitalisation project aims to address the deterioration of the path surface along the 21km route around the Loch, with the upgraded section from Kinross to Loch Leven's Larder being the first step in a comprehensive three-year plan facilitated by TRACKS.
Key improvements include filling dips and hollows, improving drainage, raising the path to prevent flooding, and resurfacing.
The Ian Findlay Path Fund was first announced in March 2022 as part of the Scottish Government’s record investment for active travel. They are committed to investing at least £320 million or 10% of the transport budget for walking, wheeling and cycling by 2024-25.
Since the fund’s launch in August 2022, 24 projects across 15 local authority areas in Scotland have received funding totalling nearly £1.3m.
The Ian Findlay Path Fund is supported by Transport Scotland. It was established in memory of Ian Findlay CBE, the late Chief Officer of Paths for All, and it continues to support local initiatives aimed at enhancing path networks and fostering active travel.
Community groups interested in applying for the second round of funding can reach out to the Ian Findlay Path Fund team at IFPF@pathforall.org.uk. or click here for more information.