Ardrossan residents and businesses are being urged to have their say on an exciting new project that aims to improve walking, cycling and wheeling connections in the area.

The Ardrossan Connections project will be delivered by Sustrans Scotland in partnership with North Ayrshire Council and Ardrossan Community Development Trust with a virtual launch event being held on Wednesday (January 20).

Residents are being asked to share their views on the project aimed at improving the experience for everyone using National Cycle Network routes through Ardrossan, and to encourage people to spend more time in the area.

Two launch events will be held via Zoom this Wednesday, with the first from 2pm-3.20pm and the second in the evening from 7pm-8.20pm – giving residents the chance to find more about the project, meet the team and share their views.

What is the project about?

The project, backed by funding from Transport Scotland, will be driven by community input and feedback and will focus on improvements around National Cycle Network Routes 73 and 753 and the surrounding streets including Glasgow Street, Princes Street and Montgomerie Street.

How will the area benefit?

A more welcoming and attractive destination for residents, visitors and local businesses will encourage more people to visit the area.

It will also improve the sense of physical and social safety, improve health and wellbeing throughout communities, encourage and foster greater levels of social cohesion and improve local retail vitality in a sustainable manner.

The project will also help to reduce noise and air pollution in the town centre of Ardrossan and encourage higher levels of physical activity.

What they have said:

Kasia Koziel, Sustrans Scotland project lead, said: “Through community engagement, we want to provide as many opportunities as possible for people in Ardrossan to share ideas which shape a more accessible and safe town centre for everyone, and improve active connections to the surrounding areas and beyond.

“Investment in better active travel links is key to encouraging more people to spend time in Ardrossan, and this project has the potential to really revitalise the area by using the expert knowledge of the local community.”

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, cabinet member for green new deal and sustainability at North Ayrshire Council, added: “This is a real opportunity for local residents to help share their hopes and ambitions for Ardrossan and play a key role in breathing new life into the town centre.

“In recent times, we have perhaps appreciated more the enjoyment from taking a walk or a cycle so it will be fantastic to see these plans develop.”

How can I get involved? 

To register for one of the virtual launch events visit Ardrossan Connections online.

If you are unable to make the online events you can also have your say anytime on their website.