CONSTRUCTION of a new active travel network that will improve links throughout Levenmouth is set to get underway in the coming weeks.
The Levenmouth connectivity project aims to connect communities across the area by creating a safe and attractive walking, wheeling, and cycling network which is accessible to all.
Phase one of the build will initially focus on links to the new railway stations and Leven and Cameron Bridge, with passenger services on the new £116 million Levenmouth rail link are due to begin in early summer.
Fife Council explained that the provision of key active travel links in and around the stations will be ‘critical’ to help improve access and maximise the economic, social, and environmental benefits that the new rail link brings.
Around Leven Station, upgrades to the Bawbee Bridge and the promenade will improve access between Leven Railway Station, Leven Bus Station, Leven town centre, and the promenade itself.
Furthermore, ‘high quality’ improvements will deliver infrastructure that provides cyclists dedicated space away from the carriageway, as well as widening of pedestrian footways.
At Cameron Bridge, a range of improvements are planned in and around Station Road in Windygates to improve links to the new railway station being built. Meanwhile, phase one will also see upgrades to the core path and existing cycleway from Mountfleurie Industrial Estate to Lawrence Drive.
In the ‘not-too-distant’ future, further work is planned for Methilhaven Road as part of phase one, but an update on that programme will be provided as and when finalised.
Councillor Altany Craik, spokesperson for finance, economy, and strategic planning, said, “By creating a network of cycle routes and associated footways that will connect communities across Levenmouth, we’re maximising the opportunity for active travel to be the first choice for everyday journeys.
“The environmental and health benefits, both physically and mentally, of providing safe, accessible ways for people to walk, wheel or cycle are significant, and encouraging more people to consider leaving the car behind for their journey is the right thing to do.
“Our streets are used by everyone and therefore should be designed with everyone in mind, so I’m really looking forward to seeing Levenmouth’s active travel network come to fruition.”
