16-07-2025
Lanarkshire groups invited to apply for £100,000 fund to improve local walking routes
Launched by Walking Scotland in partnership with Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), the SPT Community Path Fund offers grants of up to £10,000 for projects that enhance path networks.
Community groups across Lanarkshire are being invited to apply for a new £100,000 fund to improve local walking and wheeling routes, helping more people make walking and wheeling part of everyday life.
Launched by Walking Scotland in partnership with Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), the SPT Community Path Fund offers grants of up to £10,000 for projects that enhance path networks.
Applications are open now and close on September 8. All work must be completed by February 23 next year.
The fund supports improvements such as new paths, upgraded surfacing, lighting, accessible seating, signage, and planting. It can also cover design work for future path projects and the removal of physical barriers to improve access for wheelchair users, cargo bikes and adapted equipment.
To be eligible, groups must be constituted with a bank account and based within the SPT area which includes North and South Lanarkshire.
The fund is open to charities, community groups, not-for-profits, Community Councils, educational establishments and National Park Authorities. Businesses and individuals are not eligible.
Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive of Walking Scotland, said: 'At Walking Scotland, our mission is to help make walking and wheeling part of everyday life.
'This fund gives local groups the chance to make meaningful changes in their communities — helping more people walk and wheel in the places they live.
'Whether it's a new shortcut to school or improving access for all, these projects will make it easier to choose walking as part of everyday life.'
To apply, groups should first submit a short expression of interest via Walking Scotland's Grants for All platform. If the proposal meets the fund's aims and best practice design principles, applicants will be invited to complete a full application.
Groups must have landowner and planning permissions in place (if required), any additional match funding confirmed and be able to provide a copy of their constitution and latest accounts.
Stephen Dornan, Chair of SPT, said: 'The SPT Community Path Fund is a practical way for communities to improve their local infrastructure, creating safer, more accessible routes for walking and wheeling. Through investment in lighting, signage, seating and upgraded paths, we hope to encourage more people to take up active travel.
'This initiative reflects SPT's commitment to enhancing social inclusion, reducing transport emissions and promoting better health and wellbeing across the region.'
A series of free online information sessions will take place later this month to support applicants and answer questions. These will be held on July 22 (2–3pm and 6.30–7.30pm), July 28 (2–3pm), and July 29 (6.30–7.30pm).
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