Following a record-breaking year of applications, the successful projects for the 2024-25 Places for Everyone (PfE) ArtRoots fund can now been revealed.
The ArtRoots fund empowers Scottish communities to plan and deliver what they want and gives them the tools to make it happen, and this year was no exception.
Assessed against select criteria, grants of up to £6000 were available to community groups and artists across Scotland aiming to increase awareness and uptake of active travel through the scheme.
This could include the installation of a locally relevant sculpture, an engaging mural or even a colourful walking tour along one of our recently completed Places for Everyone routes.
Previous examples of projects which have benefitted from ArtRoots funding include the stunning mural delivered outside Granton Hub in Edinburgh as well as artistic support for the inaugural Walking & Wheeling festival in Glasgow.
ArtRoots mural in Ardrossan painted by artist Tragic O’Hara. Credit: Tragic O’Hara, 2023
The popularity of this year’s fund was evident with this being the highest number of Expressions of Interest received through the programme within one application window.
Indeed, by the time of the application deadline on 31st October 2024, the PfE ArtRoots fund was already oversubscribed with applications.
Of these, we were able to select four projects to receive funding from the ArtRoots programme:
Agile City – Civic Street & Glasgow Canal-Gateway Artwork Proposal
A colourful and engaging art work that acts as a ‘wayfinding beacon’ for the active travel routes that converge at Civic Street
The Edinburgh Collective C.I.C. – Roseburn To Union Canal Cycle Path: Art Trail
Art trail along the Roseburn to Union Canal Cycle Link. Murals, rain paint patterns and other small artworks are planned
Earth In Common – Croft Active Travel Art Project
Local community designing and painting artworks related to active travel on four storage containers situated on Leith Community Croft
R2 – Musical movement
An active travel event on the path between Gypsy Brae and Bricks Beach in north Edinburgh, including the completion and unveiling of murals on the planters at Gypsy Brae
Caroline Austin, Project Officer, is delighted with the interest received in the fund stating:
“The addition of an artistic intervention is a wonderful way to get the local community involved with new active travel infrastructure. Previous artworks funded by ArtRoots have proven this to be true, such as a fantastic new wall mural by the artist Tragic O’Hara in Ardrossan (pictured above) – or the artistic input into Glasgow’s first ever Walking and Wheeling Festival by the artist duo Walker and Bromwich (pictured below).”
Artist: Walker & Bromwich. Credit: Eoin Carey, May 2024
The artist duo Walker & Bromwich worked with communities in Glasgow living near the Glasgow Avenues Plus areas of Duke Street, Cowcaddens and the Gorbals in the run up to the festival. The festival was a celebration of walking and wheeling with an aim to get local people involved. Partnership working allowed for an ambitious programme of guided walks across the city. Themed walks were led by the Glasgow Women’s Library, the Glasgow Countryside Rangers and the Avenues Plus Programme team to name a few. This proved to be a great way to ‘kick-start’ positive behaviour change in terms of active journeys.
Is there a Places for Everyone (PfE) project you know of that could be further enhanced by some eye-catching artwork?
If so, then you should apply to our ArtRoots fund, which enables community groups and artists to deliver visual improvements to existing projects.
What is the fund?
ArtRoots empowers communities to plan and deliver what they want and gives them to tools to make it happen.
This can include the installation of a locally relevant sculpture, an engaging mural or even a colourful walking tour along one of our recently completed routes.
The fund can award successful applicants with a standard maximum grant of £2500.
A higher award up to £6000 may be available to projects which could significantly increase or raise awareness of active travel through wider engagement.
Previous examples of PfE projects which have benefitted from ArtRoots funding include the stunning mural delivered outside Granton Hub in Edinburgh as well as artistic support for the inaugural Walking & Wheeling festival in Glasgow.
More information and guidelines for applicants to ArtRoots is available below:
According to data collected and analysed by Sustrans, around 240,000 active journeys are predicted to have been made via Stockingfield Bridge in 2023.
Of these, around half were completed by bike, with joggers and walkers making up a large part of the remainder.
Delivered by Scottish Canals in partnership with Sustrans, Stockingfield Bridge provides a key active travel connection between the communities of Ruchill, Gilshochill and Maryhill.
A total of £13.7 million was awarded to the project via Sustrans through Places for Everyone, an active travel infrastructure fund backed by the Scottish Government.
Accessible attraction
Stockingfield Bridge provides a safe and accessible crossing for people living and working in the north of Glasgow. Credit: Sustrans/McAteer, 2023.
Researchers also asked people about their experiences of using Stockingfield Bridge. Most of those surveyed agreed that the route is well signposted, is of high quality and allows them to cross busy roads safely. As well as this, 82% of users agreed the route is accessible for people of all ages and abilities.
Prior to completion of the bridge, access to the canal towpath and travel between the communities was limited to a narrow poorly lit underpass. Heavy traffic and a repeated instances of flooding also raised safety concerns.
Karen McGregor, Scotland Director for Sustrans, said:
“It’s truly extraordinary to see how people living and working across Glasgow have embraced Stockingfield Bridge over the last two years. Not only is the route proving to be indispensable in increasing the number walking, wheeling and cycling journeys to and from the city centre, it’s also reconnecting neighbouring communities and keeping people safe from traffic every day.”
“The route is also transformational in terms of accessibility, meaning everyone regardless of ability can access the canal towpath and travel onwards via the National Cycle Network. I really look forward to seeing Stockingfield Bridge continue to grow in popularity and firmly embed itself as an iconic Glasgow landmark.”
The unique design of the bridge allows people to cross the structure from multiple locations along the canal towpath. Credit: Sustrans/McAteer, 2023.
John Paterson, Scottish Canals’ Chief Executive Officer, said:
“Stockingfield Bridge has not only re-connected the people of north Glasgow who did not have easy access across the canal since the canal was built in the late 1700s, but has become an active travel route for thousands across Scotland.”
“We are committed to ensuring that our canals and towpaths are accessible for all and provide a traffic free attractive environment to enjoy, and Stockingfield Bridge is impressive example of this. We are delighted to hear that so many people have benefited from this investment and look forward to welcoming many more in the future.”
The final leg of the South City Way officially opened this week, ensuring more people than ever are able to safely walk, wheel and cycle to and from Glasgow city centre and along the Clyde via National Cycle Network Route 7.
The newly constructed route stretches from Queen’s Park to Trongate via a fully segregated 3km link, featuring significant improvements to junctions, pavements and street greenery.
The last section completed in June of this year allows people to safely navigate the city centre from Victoria Bridge to Trongate, a journey time of just 14 minutes by bike from the Southside to the city centre.
Opening up opportunities
The route has improved local access to businesses in the Southside and improved the feel of the area. Sustrans/McAteer, 2023.
The South City Way is already proving hugely popular, with just over 3.9 million journeys recorded along the route in the last three years, accounting for 13% of all trips undertaken along sections with new infrastructure.
Passing through Govanhill and the Gorbals, the route provides convenient access to a variety destinations on the way to the city centre, including schools, hospitals and places of worship.
Local businesses along the South City Way have also benefitted from the public space improvements.
Data collected by Sustrans’ Research and Monitoring Unit (RMU) in January of this year shows a 12% increase in retail favourability since the project was completed.
The South City Way passes by a variety of different destinations for all ages, inlcuding play parks and schools. Sustrans/McAteer, 2023.
Safety and accessibility has also been a key consideration for users along the route.
The provision of fully segregated cycleways, protected junctions, and new crossing points ensures that people of all abilities are kept safe from traffic, particularly benefitting vulnerable and less confident road users.
Health benefits are also evident in the improvements to air quality along the route.
Out latest research shows there has been a 53% decrease in carbon dioxide levels since the scheme was introduced, as well as a 75% drop in nitrogen oxides.
The most recent data collected by Sustrans on the South City Way can be accessed here.
Celebrating the city centre
People can now walk, wheel and cycle into the heart of the city centre from the Southside with ease. Sustrans/McAteer, 2023.
On Wednesday 17th July, community groups and those involved in the delivery of the South City Way project gathered at King’s Court to celebrate the route opening and for a tour of the newly completed section.
Karen McGregor, Scotland Director for Sustrans, spoke about the community benefits of the new route and the increasing appetite for safe active travel options. She said:
“The South City Way is changing people’s lives in Glasgow every day. By providing a direct and accessible route to and from the city centre, the South City Way is connecting people with schools, hospitals, and other employment opportunities.”
“With almost 50% of people Glasgow wanting to walk, wheel and cycle more, we need to deliver more segregated routes like the South City Way to link up key destinations for active travel whilst also keeping people safe and protected from traffic.”
“The South City Way is changing people’s lives in Glasgow every day.”
Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, was present for a tour of the learn more about the project designs and how the South City fits into wider plans for the city. She said:
“This investment of over £3.6 million by the Scottish Government is helping us to build a more active nation, where more people choose to walk, wheel and cycle for shorter everyday journeys and can take climate action. In doing so, we’re empowering people and with healthier and happier travel options – and building thriving communities, where businesses can flourish and everyone can enjoy improved public spaces.
“Through our continued investment in active travel, I look forward to seeing more infrastructure which is similar in the scale and success of the South City Way, in towns and cities right across Scotland.”
The bidirectional and segregated design of the route keeps people protected from traffic. Sustrans/McAteer, 2023.
Councillor Angus Millar, City Convener for Transport in Glasgow, who was also in attendance, said:
“Many people want to get about by bike and other modes of active travel but are often put off by safety concerns. It is essential we respond to the desire to travel more often by walking, wheeling and cycling by create a safer environment for this kind of transport.
“Active travel is a cleaner, cheaper and healthier form of travel that can also help to create a more efficient transport network overall. More people making better use of limited road space helps the city’s network run more efficiently and that will make it easier for everyone to get about Glasgow.”
Almost £3.8 million in funding for the South City Way was awarded through Places for Everyone, an active travel infrastructure fund backed by Transport Scotland and administered by Sustrans. The remaining funding was supplied through Glasgow City Council.
On Monday 6th May, locals turned out in number at Castle Green in Broughty Ferry to mark the official opening of a new all-accessible walking, wheeling and cycling path along the River Tay.
Following along National Cycle Network Route 1, the £18m project sought to provide a safe and direct walking, wheeling and cycling option for residents and visitors to the area.
Now complete, the 2.5-mile long off-road path is already proving popular, with more people than ever able to leave the car at home for short, everyday journeys.
The almost £18 million funding for the project was received through Places for Everyone, an active travel infrastructure programme backed by Transport Scotland and managed by Sustrans.
Attendees at the event were greeted with refreshments and family-friendly activities throughout the day, including a bike skills track organised by Dundee and Angus Cycle Hub and dolphin spotting hosted by St Andrews University.
The ribbon cutting, heralding the official opening of the path, took place at noon and was performed by Councillor Steven Rome from Dundee City Council, followed by the unveiling of several stunning new artworks along the route.
The tall ambitions behind the Broughty Ferry to Monifieth project were clear from the outset.
Following early consultation with residents and businesses in 2019, initial proposals sought to deliver a safe and accessible traffic-free route between the two communities.
Tying in neatly with the planned Broughty Ferry Flood Protection Scheme which was already underway, the new route would provide a direct and continuous link along the scenic coastline and enable people of all ages and abilities to travel actively every day.
Overwhelming support was received for the suggested upgrades, with over 75% of those engaged in favour of the concept designs which were presented.
Despite setbacks resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising costs of construction materials within the industry, momentum continued to build as designs progressed, demonstrating the effective partnership working of both Angus Council and Dundee City Council.
As well as a spacious new bidirectional cycleway running for 2.5 miles between Castle Approach in Broughty Ferry and Monfieth railway station, significant public space improvements were also introduced, including additional seating, widened access barriers and improved lighting.
The communities were also closely involved in the design and delivery of a selection of stunning new artworks which complement the route.
Another major consideration from the project was in ensuring that local nature and wildlife would be preserved in abundance within the delivery of the scheme.
In order to do this, existing coastal dunes were protected within the project designs and extensive wildflower planting along the route has allowed biodiversity to continue to flourish.
One particularly significant milestone for the project was achieved in March 2024, when the new 5-metre wide Dighty Bridge was unveiled to the public.
The new accessible crossing replaces the an exceedingly narrow structure, opening up active travel to everyone and providing uninterrupted access to National Cycle Network Route 1.
Building a sense of community ownership and a sense of place was of the important importance for the project team.
This was achieved through the installation of a number of uniquely local sculptures and artworks along the route.
With seven pieces having been commissioned in total, those travelling along the path can now stop and enjoy the impressive displays whilst also learning about the surrounding area and its history.
These include a bollard trail by Tilde Arts, a poetic mural by Barry Roberston, and the Windmill Gardens by Louise Kirby which offers a quiet and tranquil space to unwind.
Most keenly anticipated, however, was the naming of the Tay Fins, designed by artist Fanny Lam Christie, depicting three breaching dolphins cast in bronze.
Following a poll of public suggestions, the names were revealed on the day of the opening – Dooker, Haar and Brochtie were chosen.
Community in focus
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony and the artwork reveals, delivery partners reflected on the project.
Lee Muir, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development for Sustrans, said:
“When we make walking, wheeling and cycling easier, everyone benefits.”
“This new route between Broughty Ferry and Monifieth gives people the freedom and choice to make sustainable and active everyday journeys, reducing congestion on roads and helping to provide cleaner air for everyone.”
Lee Muir, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development, Sustrans
Councillor Steven Rome, Convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure, Dundee City Council, said:
“This transformational and pioneering project has opened up an impressive route for active travel between Broughty Ferry and Monifieth and will links with the route right the way through Dundee.”
“This makes the area more attractive for visitors and locals alike and the public art programme is creating a real sense of place.”
Cllr Steven Rome, Convenor of Fair Work Economic Growth & Infrastructure, Dundee City Council
Councillor Mark McDonald, Communities Convenor for Angus Council, said:
“I’m pleased to see the next phase of the active travel route connecting Broughty Ferry and Monifieth officially opened.
“The area at Castle Green is looking great and the new user-friendly and accessible pathway means more people can use it to walk and cycle for everyday journeys and for fun.”
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to achieving this milestone. I’m looking forward to seeing the work progress as it continues further into Monifieth.”
Cllr Mark McDonald, Communities Convenor, Angus Council
Following a year of rigorous analysis carried out by Sustrans’ Research and Monitoring Unit (RMU), the 2022-23 evaluation report for the Places for Everyone programme is now available to the public.
The latest findings offer key insights into some of the delivery activities Places for Everyone has carried out across the lifecycle of the programme, including how the programme has contributed to overarching Scottish Government objectives in active travel as well as Places for Everyone’s own benchmark outcomes.
Backed by Transport Scotland, the Places for Everyone programme provides millions of pounds to local authorities and community groups every year in order to help create new and accessible walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure right across Scotland, from the Scottish Borders to the Western Isles.
In order to demonstrate the impact of this funding, the 2022-23 report draws on monitoring data collected from a variety of different infrastructure projects delivered by the programme, as well as five in-depth project case studies. Data is collected by Sustrans RMU and by delivery partners.
What are the findings?
Overall, the results are incredibly positive.
Measured against Scottish Government objectives, our analysis reveals an overall increase in route usage across Places for Everyone projects in the years following construction.
Likewise, a majority of route users feel safe in using Places for Everyone routes.
This was shown across different travel modes (i.e. walking and cycling) as well as demographic factors including age and gender.
This is further supported by the finding of a significant reduction in casualty rates following Places for Everyone project delivery.
In terms of the sheer amount of hard infrastructure that has been delivered through the programme, around 154km of protected and accessible routes had been created by the end of 2022-23. This compares to 54km by the end of 2016-17.
Another key highlight demonstrates that projects are supported by the communities in which they are delivered. From a sample of projects, almost three quarters of local residents supported proposals and felt their views had been taken into account as part of project development.
Turning to health outcomes, reporting not only found overall reduced emissions across a sample of projects following delivery but also revealed a significant increase in the number of route users who agreed projects had helped increase their levels of physical activity.
Taken together, these results evidence the value that Places for Everyone brings in increasing walking, wheeling and cycling journeys across Scotland, and consistently demonstrates the ability of the programme to fulfil its stated objectives.
What about specific projects?
Post-construction case studies from projects in and around Glasgow featured heavily in the report this year.
The newly completed South City Way, which was delivered in partnership with Glasgow City Council, creating a safe and accessible cycleway from Queen’s Park to the heart of the city centre, was amongst those included.
As well as a 20% reduction in vehicles travelling over the speed limit, monitoring here shows that active travel journeys along the route have increased by 30% following construction.
In terms of cutting carbon emissions, findings also revealed a 53% decrease in CO2 since the South City Way was completed.
Likewise, analysis was conducted for Stockingfield Bridge in the North of Glasgow.
Delivered by Scottish Canals, the new bridge provides a quick and convenient off-road walking, wheeling and cycling link via the Forth and Clyde Canal network.
Results here demonstrated a significant increase in trips under 4 miles, as well as trips for work, school and visiting friends and family.
The Bowline in West Dunbartonshire, also delivered by Scottish Canals, aimed to create an attractive and traffic-free connection between Glasgow city centre and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
Analysis of route usage show huge success in this regard, with trips almost doubling along the traffic-free route since its completion in late 2021.
Outside of the cities, Gynack Gardens in Kingussie has also evidenced a truly impressive impact.
Working in partnership with The Highland Council and Cycle Friendly Kingussie, the Gynack Gardens project aimed to offer residents and visitors an attractive greenspace whilst also boosting active travel.
Since completion, the new park has helped support a 270% increase in walking, wheeling and cycling in the project area.
The park also rated highly on user perceptions of safety, accessibility, and the extent to which the space has enhanced the local area.
The Cumbernauld Green Route, completed at the close of 2022 in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and Green Action Trust, provides a safe and convenient connection between the centre of Cumbernauld and surrounding communities, whilst also enhancing local greenspace.
In evidence of its success, monitoring shows a marked increase in route usage following its delivery, as well as high ratings in on quality by those using the path.
Where can I read the report?
The Places for Everyone 2022-23 infrastructure impact summary report is available to download below.
A school pupil plays with the newly-installed equipment outside Easter Carmuirs Primary School. Credit: Sustrans
A headteacher has welcomed the completion of a community-led project designed to make the routes into their primary school safer and more accessible.
Pupils, staff and the wider community at Easter Carmuirs Primary School in Camelon worked in partnership with Sustrans Scotland, Falkirk Council and the Safer Community Youth Action Project to deliver Easter Carmuirs Pocket Places.
A wider pedestrian walkway, as well as planters and additional areas for sitting or playing are among the installations. Credit: Sustrans
Among the improvements are a wider pedestrian walkway and installation of ramps to allow step-free access to school entrances.
The installations follow a collaborative process in which staff, pupils and parents/carers were asked to shape the project, ensuring that the final design meets the needs of those who use it the most.
Pupils have welcomed the installations. Credit: Sustrans
Shelagh Todd, Headteacher of Easter Carmuirs said:
“We’re thrilled with the redesign of the school grounds which has made the routes into school safer, more accessible and attractive.
“Following our award from Sustrans in 2021 we carried out consultation with children, families, community partners and staff around what would work best for our young people to enable safe travel into school. Work began in June 2023 and was completed in March 2024 including a redesign of the car park and safe paths in to school, ensuring accessibility for all.
“Everyone involved is extremely happy with the end result especially our pupils and their families.”
Headteacher Shelagh Todd
The pedestrian walkway has been extended, now continuing to the entrance of the nursery. Credit: Sustrans
What’s new at Easter Carmuirs Primary?
The protected central pedestrian walkway outside the school has been widened, with planters and additional areas for sitting or playing installed.
The path from the lower car park to the main school door has been widened to increase accessibility.
A ramp has been installed, allowing step-free access to other school entrances.
A further ramp has been put in place between the upper and lower car parks.
The pedestrian walkway has been extended, now continuing to the entrance of the nursery.
The school’s two existing bike shelters have been repaired, with the addition of lockable doors to improve security.
Staff, pupils and the wider community worked together to deliver Easter Carmuirs Pocket Places. Credit: Sustrans
How was the project delivered?
The completion of Easter Carmuirs Pocket Places follows a successful application by the school and Our Place Camelon and Tamfourhill to Sustrans Scotland in 2021 for support through the Pocket Places Programme. The Safer Community Youth Action Project is a legacy of the Our Place project.
Sustrans’ collaborative design process puts the people who use the space at the heart of designing solutions to local issues and the Pocket Places programme is an opportunity for local communities to shape their neighbourhood and take a lead in making their local area a better place to live.
Throughout the process, the project partners invited pupils, staff, parents/carers and the local community to share their views and aspirations for the lanes at a series of engagement activities.
Representatives of the project partners, from left, Serge Neumand, Project Manager, Co-Design, Sustrans Scotland, Sheila Muir, Parent Council Chair, Marion Eele, Project Lead, Co-Design, Sustrans Scotland, Shelagh Todd, Headteacher, Easter Carmuirs Primary School, Bryan Jardine, Transport Planning Officer, Falkirk Council and John Hosie, Youth & Community Development Worker, Safer Community Youth Action Project. Credit: Sustrans
John Hosie, Youth & Community Development Worker, Safer Community Youth Action Project, said:
“The installation of the new traffic management measures, the safe seating and social spaces and the now-enhanced and inclusive active travel access around Easter Carmuirs Primary School have all contributed to the positive legacy of the Our Place Camelon & Tamfourhill Projects Community Safety Strategy.
“I look forward to building on the partnership established with the school as the Safer Communities Youth Action Project supports and facilitates further community development projects and opportunities.”
Youth & Community Development Worker John Hosie
Creative ground markings by Bigg Design and Fun Makes Good are part of the improvements. Credit: Sustrans
Marion Eele, Project Lead, Co-Design, Sustrans Scotland, said:
“We are delighted to see the completion of this exciting project, delivered in partnership with the Easter Carmuirs Primary School community, Falkirk Council and the Safer Community Youth Action Project
“It has been especially pleasing to see the pupils enjoying the new spaces.
“Working closely with people from across the school community has ensured that the installations meet the needs of those who use them most.
“We hope these installations encourage more pupils to walk, wheel or cycle to and from school.”
Project Lead Marion Eele
Sustrans’ collaborative design process puts the people who use the space at the heart of designing solutions to local issues. Credit: Sustrans
Easter Carmuirs Pocket Places is supported by funding from the Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Pocket Places programme and delivered in partnership with the Safer Community Youth Action Project, Easter Carmuirs Primary School, and Falkirk Council.
An image from the concept design, showing how Eliza Street could look. Credit: Sustrans
Over a period of seven months, Stobswell Forum worked in partnership with Sustrans Scotland and Dundee City Council to understand what improvements residents, business owners, school pupils and community groups would like to make to Eliza Street.
The result is a concept design which can now be taken forward to detailed design and construction stages by Dundee City Council.
The concept design, which was revealed at an event in March 2024, is the latest stage of the ongoing regeneration of Stobswell, and builds on the project partners’ work in nearby streets, including the Craigie Street Pocket Park.
How was the concept design developed?
Using a collaborative design process, the local community were involved in each stage of the project; telling the project partners what they would like to see, developing ideas and giving feedback and suggestions on the draft concept design.
Throughout a series of in-person engagement events and workshops and via online surveys, residents emphasised the importance of bringing colour and art to the area.
Local artists Cara Rooney and Lauren Morsley were commissioned to create art panels for Eliza Street. Credit: Graeme McKenzie
The project partners commissioned local artists Cara Rooney and Lauren Morsley to deliver workshops and create art panels for Eliza Street. Cara and Lauren facilitated workshops with Clepington Primary, Morgan Academy and Dundee International Woman’s Centre to get ideas and inspiration.
The purpose of the panels was to explore and celebrate the sense of place, the history and the people of Stobswell. The brilliant set of art panels have been manufactured and installed by Barry from Robertsign, and were revealed at an event in March.
What else is included in the concept design?
In response to the community’s call for more greenery, the design includes planting more trees as well as installing rain gardens, in keeping with other streets in Stobswell.
Access to the street will be restricted by bollards to ensure only authorised vehicles can access the central public realm.
It has been recommended that seating that has back and arm rests, as well as wheelchair and pushchair friendly picnic tables and hedges and shrubs by the seating area to provide a wind barrier, should be provided.
Inspired by Langlands Street, a colourful and creative bin enclosure is proposed around the communal bins. This is in addition to the provision of more bins to reduce littering.
Elsewhere, the design proposes that cobbles are reused to complement the heritage of the area, and that two shuffle pole lighting columns be installed to improve the lighting on the street.
What happens next?
Now that the concept design has been revealed, the next stage of the Eliza Street project will be undertaken by Dundee City Council. The detailed design stage builds on the concept design by developing the designs to a technical level, ensuring the project can be built safely and effectively.
The delivery of future stages is dependent on funding.
Colleagues from Sustrans and Dundee City Council joined artists Cara Rooney and Lauren Morsley at the launch event. Credit: Graeme McKenzie
Chair of Stobswell Forum Colin Clement welcomed the concept design and said:
“Everyone at the Forum is really excited to reach the end of the first part of the project which has seen so many positive conversations around the future of Eliza Street.
“It’s clear that the local people as well as visitors and shoppers want to see a bright and welcoming public space in the heart of the Albert Street shopping area.”
Stobswell Forum Chair Colin Clement
Mollie McCulloch, Community Engagement and Behaviour Change Officer, Co-Design, Sustrans Scotland, added:
“We are pleased to complete the concept design stage of this project, working in partnership with the local community, Stobswell Forum and Dundee City Council to develop the community’s ideas and make Eliza Street a more attractive and exciting place to spend time in.
“The need to bring more colour to the area came up continually in our conversations with residents, and we’re thrilled that local artists Cara Rooney and Lauren Morsley were able to create art panels that celebrate Stobswell as a place, as well as the people who call it home.
“We look forward to seeing the community’s vision for Eliza Street become a reality.”
Mollie McCulloch, Sustrans Scotland
Councillor Steven Rome is Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure convener at Dundee City Council. Cllr Rome said:
“I am delighted that people living locally have played an important role in the development of this pocket park.
“Their views have helped to shape the final designs and local artists are creating artwork which will brighten the area up.
“The Eliza Street project is just the latest example of how communities can get involved in transforming their area.”
Cllr Steven Rome, Dundee City Council
Eliza Street Pocket Places is supported by funding from the Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Pocket Places programme, Dundee City Council’s Maryfield Community Regeneration Fund and District Centre Fund.
On Wednesday 3rd April, construction officially began on the landmark Arbroath A Place for Everyone project.
The £14m project, £10.7m of which has been awarded through Sustrans Scotland’s Scottish Government-backed Places for Everyone programme, is set to deliver a transformative network of all new walking, wheeling and cycling routes throughout the town.
This aims to neatly link up key travel destinations, such as shopping areas and schools, as well as popular tourist sites.
The project will also conveniently tie with National Cycle Network Route 1, which runs along the seafront from Dundee and up to Aberdeen, further cementing links between settlements along the coast.
Backed by extensive engagement with the local community, the emerging work is expected to help foster the conditions for a significant boost to the local economy via increased footfall to businesses and an uptick in tourism to the seafront.
Once completed, it is hoped by many that the project will serve as the backbone for future active travel initiatives in the area.
The delivery of the Arbroath project has been hotly anticipated by many for some time, with early community consultation dating back to 2015.
Financial support was initially received in 2019 via Sustrans’ Places for Everyone programme, which at the time made Arbroath the first town in Scotland to receive such a high level of funding through the Scottish government-backed scheme.
Years of careful design and planning work, informed by and acting on feedback from the local community, were then carried out between the partnership of Sustrans, Angus Council, and Arcadis.
Following this process, proposals are now being taken forward to create:
A new 1.5km, segregated cycleway alongside the A92 dual carriageway from the West Links area of the town to Arbroath Abbey, with a link-in to Brockthock Bridge.
Redesigned junctions and crossings, making it safer and easier to walk, wheel and cycle.
As well as new seating and landscapes, improving the accessibility of public spaces and encourage safer walking, wheeling and cycling options throughout the town
Current traffic levels showed that large parts of the project could be achieved by repurposing parts of the A92 dual carriageway, which has long created a sense of division across Arbroath.
Working in tandem with the local community, the proposed designs were gradually enhanced, including the introduction of temporary trial measures in 2021 to help those living and working in the town get a feel for the project.
Celebrating strong partnership
Despite a persistent downpour outside the Signal Tower Museum, the first spade was determinedly dug in by Angus Council Leader Cllr Beth Whiteside.
Carole Patrick, Portfolio Director for Sustrans, was witness to the big moment.
“We’re overjoyed to see construction starting on this fantastic project. By delivering new cycle lanes, tree and wildflower planting, as well as paved seating areas in the town, people living and working in Arbroath will be able to walk, wheel and cycle safely, whilst also enjoying a more relaxed and attractive environment.”
Carole Patrick, Portfolio Director, Sustrans
Both were joined by Active Travel Spokesperson Cllr Serena Cowdy, as well as Contracts Manager for Balfour Beatty Keith McDonald and Project Manager for Balfour Beatty Tom Truesdale.
“Today’s milestone marks several years of consultation, planning and effort to create and see come to fruition, an ambitious project that will make Arbroath a more desirable place to live in, work in and to visit.”
Councillor Serena Cowdy, Active Travel Spokesperson, Angus Council
There’s a great deal to look forward to over the next year as the project truly starts to take shape, with construction the project is set to be complete by the end of 2025.
Two children look at a decorative metal barrier featuring phrases in the Caithness dialect. The barrier has replaced two existing barriers in order to improve accessibility for people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters and with buggies. Credit: Sustrans
A community has celebrated the installation of a series of durable, long-lasting interventions in their local area.
Among these are five brand-new artworks inspired by Wick’s rich heritage as well as the installation of benches and planters and removal of barriers to increase accessibility and enable more people to stop and enjoy the area.
Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council and The Highland Council successfully applied for Sustrans Scotland’s Pocket Places Programme funding to redesign some of the lanes leading to Wick High Street to make them feel safer, easier to navigate, and a better celebration of Wick’s unique heritage.
A Sustrans colleague discusses the Wick Lanes Pocket Places designs with residents at an event to mark completion of the project. Credit: Sustrans
Artworks bring area to life
Sustrans’ collaborative design process puts the people who use the space at the heart of designing solutions to local issues. Throughout the process, the project partners invited local residents, schools, groups and business owners to share their views and aspirations for the lanes at a series of engagement activities to ensure that the design meets the needs of those who use it the most.
In response to suggestions during early community engagement for heritage-inspired public artworks in the lanes, the project partners collaborated with Wick Society and commissioned local artists Hannah Cambridge and Aimee Lockwood to create five new artworks inspired by the town’s history and heritage. The artists conducted workshops to gather input from the community and local schools on specific elements from the Johnston Collection, held in trust by The Wick Society, and Wick’s built heritage.
Artworks in focus
Informed by this community collaboration, the artists translated these elements into exciting designs which are now on display. The artworks have been plasma-cut from weathering steel, a robust and long-lasting material that will stand as lasting testament to Wick’s rich heritage and long history.
Also known as COR-TEN steel, this architectural steel alloy is engineered to provide its own protection from the elements with an innovative formulation that weathers on the outside while the overall structure is protected. This layer of oxidation will age over the years for a distinctive look.
Aimee Lockwood’s artwork celebrates the fountain by the riverside and has been installed on Wares Lane where it joins Bridge Street. Credit: Sustrans
Installed on Wares Lane, this artwork by Aimee Lockwood celebrates the fountain by the riverside. Aimee said: “The fountain by the riverside was commissioned by the Wares family, who were tailors based on Wares Lane, so I liked the connection there!
“The riverside felt like a good place to showcase young people playing as it’s where the playpark is today, and I’ve included some natural elements because the wildlife is the star of the show in Caithness.”
This work by Hannah Cambridge has been installed on Wares Lane where it joins with Bridge Street.
Also installed on Wares Lane is a work by Hannah Cambridge and inspired by the traditional Herring Queen celebration. Hannah explained: “The celebration attracted up to 8,000 spectators in its heyday, was initiated in 1937 by a committee in Wick, aiming to lift spirits during a period of poor fishing.
“The Queen, chosen from those with herring industry ties, was crowned at Braehead and embarked upon a procession through the town and out to sea. The copper crown, symbolising Wick’s maritime history, featured the Ensign Armorial of Wick. After a hiatus from 1939 to 1949, the tradition continued until 1953, coinciding with the decline of herring fishing. The event evolved into the Gala Queen, a July procession that continues to this day.”
Elsewere on Wares Lane, decorative panels inspired by local knitting traditions will be installed to help improve refuse storage for local businesses.
Market Lane is now home to two works by local artist Aimee Lockwood. Credit: Sustrans
Two brand-new works by Aimee Lockwood have been installed on Market Lane where it joins with Market Square. The first makes a visual connection to the Alexander Bain pub.
Aimee explained: “The Alexander Bain pub was a post and telegram office so I’ve focused on that, with the bicycle messengers and including visual nods to the postal service and telegraph wires. I’ve also included some clocks and watchmaking imagery to reference Alexander Bain’s work as an inventor, as well as the watchmakers who used to work in the area.”
On the other artwork installed on Market Lane, Aimee said: “I wanted this one to be all about fun, so I’ve centred the playful leaping man and included some of the other entertaining characters from the Johnston Collection (there are so many photos of people dressed as clowns!)
“I also wanted to nod to the barrel and rope making industries (next to the pub feels fitting for the barrels) and included some seaweed for a bit of natural texture.”
Inspired by the ocean and its impact on the culture and people of Wick, this original artwork is by Hannah Cambridge. Credit: Hannah Cambridge
This original artwork by Hannah Cambridge has been installed at the bottom of Market Lane on Market Street.
Hannah said: “Inspired by the ocean and its impact on the culture and people of Wick, this work weaves together coastal landmarks, natural elements (the Northern Lights, the night sky, local wildlife, sea foam, and sunlight filtering through clouds), nods to traditional trades such as barrel and rope making, and the enduring legacy of the herring trade.”
Two people walk by the decorative metal barrier featuring phrases in the Caithness dialect, which has been installed on John Street. Credit: Sustrans
Also on John Street, the existing metal barriers have been removed and replaced with a decorative metal barrier featuring phrases in the Caithness dialect to improve accessibility for people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters and with buggies.
On Tolbooth Lane, a bench has been installed to provide a place for people to stop and and rest on the way up the hill.
How was the project delivered?
Wick Lanes Pocket Places began with a Co-Discover event in August 2023. The project partners worked with schools, groups and the wider community in Wick to identify barriers and opportunities to feed into design ideas for the lanes. People could share their ideas by completing a survey and/or joining an event.
Then, in November 2023, during the Co-Design phase and after analysing all the feedback we collected in the Co-Discover phase, the project partners brought this all together in a series of design ideas for the lanes. In November, these designs were brought back to the community and local access groups to see what worked and what needed to be changed. At this point, the community was invited to take part in workshops with the Wick Society and artists Hannah Cambridge and Aimee Lockwood to collaboratively create the heritage-themed artworks.
The brand-new artworks, as well as the final designs for the lanes were shown to the community in January 2024. And in March 2024, during the Co-Deliver phase, the project was installed and the community invited to an event to celebrate its conclusion.
Pictured with Hannah Cambridge’s artwork are, l-r, Royal Burgh of Wick Community Councillors Joanna Coghill and Allan Farquhar, Marion Eele, Project Lead, Co-Design, Sustrans Scotland, artist Hannah Cambridge and Thomas Parkin, Senior Urban Designer, Sustrans. Credit: Sustrans
Marion Eele, Project Lead, Co-Design, Sustrans Scotland:
“We are thrilled to see work complete on this exciting project delivered in partnership with the local community, Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council and The Highland Council.
“From the beginning of this project, the community told us they wanted to make the lanes feel safer, more inviting and accessible, as well as to see their heritage and historic character strengthened.
“The changes brought about by the local community will enable residents and visitors to the area to enjoy calm and vibrant spaces while celebrating the town’s rich heritage.
“Seeing the interventions come to life highlights the value of putting people at the heart of decisions on their local spaces.”
Project Lead Marion Eele
Cllr Richard Bremner, Highland Council Leader and Wick Ward Councillor
“This initiative is a small project that will help brighten the lane areas of the town. The funding for this is ring-fenced and, as such, will go to areas that bid to secure it. If we don’t bid, it will go somewhere else. It’s nice to see this project completed. Local folks were engaged from the start, engaging people who live and run businesses in Wick at the heart of the design-process.
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has been involved, from coming to the first concept meetings, to taking part in the series of interactive workshops and consultation events. Their input has been key in the whole design process.
“The historic centre of our town will be made a more inviting and appealing place in a small way. It will improve the historic and heritage character of the lanes.”
Highland Council Leader and Wick Ward Councillor Richard Bremner
Allan Farquhar, Chair, Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council:
“Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council are delighted to partner with Highland Council and Sustrans in this initiative which will provide a starting point for the regeneration of our town centre.
“A phased transformation of the Lanes with anticipated spin off to other areas utilising street furniture, artworks and lighting designs sympathetic to our rich heritage and culture complement other development initiatives currently in planning stages by both Highland Council and local community groups.”
Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council Chair Allan Farquhar
Wick Lanes Pocket Places is supported by funding from the Scottish Government through Sustrans Scotland’s Pocket Places programme and delivered in partnership with The Highland Council and Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council.
