A community in Glasgow's east end celebrated a major milestone in an environmental project designed to improve health and tackle fuel poverty in the area with the opening of a new cycle tracks.

The Milnbank Carbon Reduction Project - which has so far contributed to a reduction of 2000 tonnes of carbon emissions during the past 18 months – boasts a new mountain bike track in Alexandra Park, suitable for all ages and abilities, and a purpose built outdoor classroom.

A second cycle track adjacent to Haghill Park Primary School has been designed for younger cyclists and those with disabilities.

The Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport, Shona Robison MSP, officially opened the track alongside special guests, Special Olympics gold medallist cyclists Ronnie Henry and Leanne Peters.

According to resident and chair of Milnbank Housing Association's management committee, John O'Donnell, the community has really engaged in the project and got involved with it.

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He commented: "This has really lifted spirits and it is now well embedded in our community, which has now gained the confidence and credibility to build on its early success."

Director of Milnbank Housing Association, Alan Benson, said: "As part of our contribution to the carbon reduction agenda, the health and well-being of the community has improved with better insulated homes, more disposable income and reductions in fuel poverty."

Shona Robison MSP, added: "Today is another example of the ongoing regeneration of Glasgow's East End. This type of initiative adds real value to the East End which is also seeing both world-class sporting facilities and terrific new community resources as a result of the 2014 Commonwealth Games. We can't underestimate the valuable role that sport can play in community life and the importance of making sure that people have access to it.

"Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing us today and by investing in facilities such as this we can help to ensure that people not only have more and better opportunities to participate in sport but that communities are empowered such as in Milnbank through the Climate Challenge Fund to take action to reduce their carbon footprint."

Led by Milnbank Housing Association, the project was funded by the Climate Challenge Fund with additional support from Glasgow City Council, Cycling Scotland and sponsorship from Safedem and Caledonian Construction Ltd.

(JG/BMcC)