Councillors at the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committed received updates on the latest progress in delivering a high-quality walking, wheeling and cycling route linking Helensburgh, Cardross and Dumbarton, alongside the wider programme of active travel investment across the area.
The Helensburgh–Cardross–Dumbarton cycle path project continues to progress through key design and development stages, with significant progress made over the past year.
Important topographical, ecological and winter bird surveys across Phases 1 and 2 have now been completed, helping to inform the next stages of detailed design.
A major milestone has also been reached in determining the preferred route for Phase 1 (Helensburgh to Cardross). A recent deliverability review indicates that a route running along the southern (seaward) side of the A814 provides the most practical and deliverable option, offering advantages in maintenance, safety and construction.
All landowners along this section have given their support in principle for the emerging route. This is expected to help streamline delivery and reduce the need for compulsory land purchase.
Further east, work is progressing on Phase 2, between Cardross and Dumbarton. Around half of the required ground investigation surveys have now been completed, with the remainder expected to finish in summer 2026 following positive coordination with utility providers.
Funding remains a key factor for the delivery of the project. The Council successfully secured Scottish Government Active Travel Infrastructure funding for 2025/26 and has submitted a further application for 2026/27, with decisions currently pending.
The cycle path forms part of a broader programme of active travel projects across Argyll and Bute.
In 2025/26, the Council’s Active Travel Team secured £1.1 million of external funding to deliver 17 projects, driving forward projects to improve the lives and opportunities for communities and residents across the whole of Argyll and Bute.
These projects include new and improved cycling and walking infrastructure, alongside initiatives to support behaviour change, such as:
- Bike recycling schemes providing free access to bikes for residents
- Cycle training for school pupils through the Bikeability programme
- Improved routes linking communities to schools, services and employment
Active travel investment is particularly important locally, with 18% of households in Helensburgh and Lomond having no access to a car, highlighting the need for safe, accessible alternatives for everyday journeys.
Beyond improving connectivity, these projects bring wider benefits including better public health, increased footfall for local businesses, improved road safety and reduced carbon emissions.
While progress continues, the Council notes that the current annual and competitive funding model remains a challenge, requiring projects to reapply for funding each year and work within tight delivery timescales.
Officers will continue working with Transport Scotland and other partners to secure future funding and move projects forward into construction phases.
Policy Lead for Roads and Transport, Councillor John Armour, said:
“It is very encouraging to see continued progress on the Helensburgh to Dumbarton cycle path, with key surveys completed and strong support from landowners for the preferred route.
“This project is a vital investment in our area, providing safer, more accessible travel options and helping people choose to walk, wheel or cycle for everyday journeys.
“Alongside this, the wider programme of active travel projects demonstrates our commitment to improving connectivity, supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing carbon emissions across our communities.
“We will continue to work closely with partners to secure the funding needed to deliver these important projects.”
