Cash to help create a new path in the East Neuk has been secured by the cycling sub-group working on behalf of Anstruther Community Council.
Sustrans have promised £280,383 to match funding already agreed from within Fife Council for the shared use path, which will run from Pittenweem to Anstruther, linking main venues and shops and the harbour area, on to Cellardyke and finishing in Kilrenny.
Elizabeth Riches, East Neuk councillor, said work can now be started on the design, although Sustrans will need to approve that before the funding is released while successful agreements will also have to be concluded with landowners along the route.
“This shared use path will encourage school children to cycle safely to school, allow those with mobility scooters to easily access local amenities and provide walkers and runners with additional routes,” she noted.
“This is not the limit of our ambition as we hope to eventually have a cycle track linking all the East Neuk villages.”
Andy Peddie, chairman of East Neuk Local Tourism Association and of Anstruther Community Council, also welcomed the announcement.
“During the tourist season the main roads are very busy, and can be dangerous,” he said.
“It will be great for them to be able to enjoy all our area has to offer using shared-use paths. Many people within our community have worked hard to make this project happen and this shows what can be achieved by pulling together.”