A bid has been submitted by Falkirk Council to improve the path network in the area.

If successful, the £8.5m bid would see work carried out to the existing paths to improve cycling and walking routes in the town.

The bids will be made to Sustrans for upgrades to eight different areas. This includes the Falkirk to Denny path that will connect the Falkirk Wheel to the new John Muir Way and will see a new bridge constructed over the M876. The project, expected to open in 2016 is at a total cost of £6.1m.

A number of smaller bids are also being made by the local authority, including:

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• £1m path between Bo'ness and Blackness. This will allow full completion of the John Muir Way and provide a safe off-road route for walkers and cyclists.

• £600,000 path link between Carron and The Helix.

• £350,000 route from Carronshore to The Helix.

• Other paths developed at Little Kerse in Grangemouth and at Maddiston.

Councillor Dr Craig Martin, spokesperson for the Environment, said: "We want to make Falkirk the cycling and walking capital of Scotland. We already have a great path network across the Falkirk council area that is well used for tourism and leisure.

"If successful, this bid will allow us to fully open the network up and see a far greater connectivity between important sites such as the Helix, the Falkirk Wheel and the new, John Muir Way.

"We have had great support from a number of organisations and community groups who all share the same ambitions to see the area as an attractive place to live, visit and work in."

A final decision will likely be made late Spring 2014.

(JP)