Councillors on the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee have received an update on plans for a high-quality walking, wheeling and cycling route linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton, alongside broader active travel investment across the area.

The Helensburgh–Cardross–Dumbarton cycle path continues to move through design and development, with significant progress over the past year.

Topographical, ecological and winter bird surveys for Phases 1 and 2 have been completed, informing the next stages of detailed design.

A major milestone has been reached with a preferred alignment for Phase 1 (Helensburgh to Cardross): a deliverability review indicates the southern (seaward) side of the A814 is the most practical option, offering advantages in maintenance, safety and construction.

All landowners along this section have given support in principle for the emerging route, which is expected to streamline delivery and reduce the need for compulsory land purchase.

For Phase 2 (Cardross to Dumbarton), around half of the required ground investigation surveys are complete; the remainder are expected to finish in summer 2026 following coordination with utility providers.

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Funding remains critical. The Council has secured Scottish Government Active Travel Infrastructure funding for 2025/26 and has applied for 2026/27, with decisions pending.

The cycle path sits within a wider programme of active travel activity across Argyll and Bute.

In 2025/26, the Council's Active Travel Team secured £1.1 million in external funding to deliver 17 projects across the area.

These include new and improved cycling and walking infrastructure and behaviour-change initiatives, such as bike recycling schemes providing free access to bikes for residents, cycle training for school pupils through the Bikeability programme, and improved routes linking communities to schools, services and employment.

With 18% of households in Helensburgh and Lomond having no access to a car, investment in safe, accessible alternatives for everyday journeys is particularly important.

Beyond connectivity, the work is expected to support better public health, increase footfall for local businesses, improve road safety and cut carbon emissions.

However, the current annual, competitive funding model remains a challenge, requiring repeated applications and delivery within tight timescales.

Officers will continue working with Transport Scotland and other partners to secure future funding and move projects into construction phases.

Policy Lead for Roads and Transport, Councillor John Armour, said: "It is very encouraging to see continued progress on the Helensburgh to Dumbarton cycle path, with key surveys completed and strong support from landowners for the preferred route.

"This project is a vital investment in our area, providing safer, more accessible travel options and helping people choose to walk, wheel or cycle for everyday journeys.

"Alongside this, the wider programme of active travel projects demonstrates our commitment to improving connectivity, supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing carbon emissions across our communities.

"We will continue to work closely with partners to secure the funding needed to deliver these important projects."