Cyclists to and from Dunblane and Bridge of Allan could be edging closer to a safer journey.
Green councillor Alasdair Tollemache, himself a keen cyclist, says the route at the moment is often dangerous but is a vital link to connect people for work, tourism and exercise.
At a recent full meeting of Stirling Council he asked environment and housing convener Councillor Jim Thomson for an update on plans for an upgraded cycle route on the stretch and whether it was an “absolute priority” for the council.
Councillor Thomson said: “I can’t say it’s the top priority but I very much support cycle routes and you [Councillor Tollemache] have very much championed this route.
“The easy part would be the dual carriageway, although it has its difficulties. The main issue for me is the stretch to Bridge of Allan from the roundabout. There have been road accidents there and I very much hope the business case comes up with a solution we can adopt so certainly part of our strategy.
“I wouldn’t say it’s top priority but it’s up there and we will give as much as we can with regard to funding if can get that through Sustrans for example. Tactran have been asked to look at this in a bit more detail.”
The creation of a safe and secure active travel corridor from Dunblane to Bridge of Allan is included in the council’s Active Travel Action Plan, which forms part of the Local Transport Strategy.
In late 2020 officers secured funding from Tactran to undertake a feasibility study of this route. Officers, with support from a design consultant, engaged with local stakeholders to appraise the route and options for development.
“Officers have recently received this study and are working through the detail of it,” said Councillor Thomson. “Meetings will be arranged to review the study with the community and elected members to seek views on the proposals.
“Officers have submitted a note of interest to Tactran for funding to enable the development of an outline business case and detailed design from the Dunblane to Bridge of Allan route. Further community engagement will be undertaken during this stage.”
