A series of walking routes are being created in the Kilbirnie area, thanks to the help of UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE).

ATTIX Community Interest Company (CIC) is a local not for profit group, who aim to regenerate communities by creating new opportunities.

Their latest venture involves the creation of the Garnock Valley Trails, a series of waking routes that aim to promote local heritage and tackle mental health issues.

UKSE has provided ATTIX CIC with £2,500, which will go towards enhancing the existing walkways with sign posts and informative QR codes, which cover the Garnock Valley hills, and will officially open in the summer.

ATTIX CIC have been developing the trails with North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership and Ayrshire and Arran Health Board, with the aim that they will help combat loneliness and mental health conditions and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Allan Wilson, a director at ATTIX and former MSP, said: “The North Ayrshire area contains some of the worst health and mental health statistics in the country.

“The team at ATTIX are committed to helping the community, and we’re hopeful that the regeneration of Kilbirnie, including the new walking routes, will have a lasting beneficial impact on the life of local people.

“I’m very grateful for the support UKSE have given us. Without their backing, we wouldn’t be able to improve these walkways and tie in aspects of our cultural and industrial heritage, which I’m sure will be enjoyed by locals and visitors to the area for years to come.”

Scott Webb, regional executive at UKSE said: “In a world where we are always on computers and smart phones, we need to be mindful of getting out and about in the great outdoors.

“UKSE is happy to support the development of the Garnock Valley Trails and are proud of the fantastic community work ATTIX CIC carries out in the North Ayrshire area.”

For more information on funding opportunities with UK Steel Enterprise please click here.