North Lanarkshire Council and Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT) are working together to create a new 2.3km Green Route linking communities between Abronhill and Cumbernauld.

The project will see existing paths upgraded and road crossings improved for pedestrian safety, including installation of a toucan crossing and four raised islands.

Environmental improvements and planting will be carried out along the route and, as part of a community arts initiative, two underpasses and a bridge will also be refurbished.

Work will start in March on the £551,000 project which is being funded by the Scottish Government Town Centre Funds via the council, and Transport Scotland through Sustrans' Places for Everyone programme, and delivered by CSGNT. The idea for the project was developed by Cumbernauld Living Landscape Partnership, a dedicated team within Scottish Wildlife Trust.

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"The upgrading of the existing pathway will see an improved link between the communities of Abronhill, Kildrum and Carbrain and the town centre, allowing residents to walk and cycle between home, shops, schools, leisure facilities and employment opportunities," explained Councillor Allan Graham, Convener of the Enterprise and Growth Committee.

"It will create an attractive route for people to enjoy as they walk or cycle, including trees, ornamental planting, a wildflower meadow, seating areas, natural play equipment, picnic areas and decorative path features."

The Central Scotland Green Network Trust will work alongside project partners to manage the delivery of the route. Mike Batley, Development Officer at CSGNT, said: "The Central Scotland Green Network aims to connect communities and local amenities, and projects like these are helping to achieve this across central Scotland and promote healthy, active lifestyles.

"Cumbernauld Living Landscape has developed a green active travel route that supports everyday journeys within the communities to schools, shops and workplaces, and links greenspaces along it so that people can enjoy safe, attractive spaces to walk and cycle."

The route stretches from Yule Way, Carbrain to Cedar Road, Abronhill, linking to Carbrain Primary School and running track, Kildrum Primary School, the new Kildrum play area, Kildrum Family Learning Centre, Red Burn bridge and Abronhill Primary School.

Central Scotland Green Network Trust is a registered charity and a not-for-profit organisation, tasked with driving forward the delivery of the Central Scotland Green Network.

(MH/JG)