Award for ‘cycle friendly’ Kingussie

A Cairngorms National Park community has been recognised for its work in promoting cycling. Kingussie has been selected by Cycling Scotland as a partner organisation to develop a new Cycle Friendly Community Award, funded by Transport Scotland.

As a result, Kingussie Community Development Company (KCDC) will have access to a grant fund of £18,325 in order to pilot additional cycling initiatives in and around the Badenoch town.

Cycling Scotland is working closely with four communities across Scotland, including Kingussie, to trial criteria being developed for the award. Each project will have access to a dedicated grant fund to implement programmes such as cycle training, infrastructure, mapping and partnership working to encourage more people to use their bikes for travel in the local area. All measures that are funded will be closely monitored and evaluated, contributing to the development of award criteria. After the initial consultation and development period, the award is planned for launch in 2015, giving communities all over Scotland the opportunity to benefit from the award.

Bob Kinnaird, a member of the KCDC steering group said: “We are delighted to have been selected as one of the four pilot communities to work with Cycling Scotland to help develop the concept of cycle friendly communities. We intend to use this opportunity to develop and enhance cycling in Kingussie, engaging with all ages and all sectors of our community. Our successful application was based on a range of projects including infrastructure, information, training and events. We also hope to make Kingussie and Badenoch a more attractive destination for cycling visitors.”

David Clyne, Recreation and Access Manager at the Cairngorms National Park Authority commented: “The CNPA is delighted that Kingussie has been awarded a Cycle Scotland – Cycle Friendly Community Award. Designing and promoting places that encourage physical activity is a key goal of our developing access strategy, Active Cairngorms. The development and promotion of cycling in Kingussie will help all our residents enjoy more active and healthier lifestyles.”

Kingussie Community Development Community was chosen by Cycling Scotland to take part in the pilot as they have successfully delivered several local projects including ‘Bikefest Scotland’ and have a clear aim to increase cycling in the community through a programme of activities.