Have your say on Falkirk’s Core Paths Plan
Residents are being asked to have their say on proposals to update Falkirk’s Core Paths Plan for the first time since 2010.
The draft Revised Core Paths Plan proposes giving Core Path status to 159 existing routes across the Falkirk Council area, as well as making changes to a small number of existing Core Paths.
If approved, the changes would add more than 96km of existing routes to the Core Paths Plan, reflecting the significant growth and development of the area’s wider path network since the current plan was adopted in 2010. The proposals are about formally recognising routes which already exist.
The consultation is open until 12 October and people can comment on the proposed additions and changes or suggest other existing routes they think should be considered for Core Path status.
Core Paths form the basic network of routes that provide reasonable non-motorised access throughout the Falkirk Council area. They connect communities and facilities and link into the wider path network and routes in neighbouring council areas.
The network supports walking, cycling, horse riding and other forms of outdoor access, although not every individual path is suitable for every type of user. Paths can also provide connections to local facilities, transport links, visitor attractions and natural and historic sites.
More than £8.9 million was secured for investment in the area’s path network between 2014 and 2026, with new and improved routes developed over that period. The review provides an opportunity to bring the Core Paths Plan up to date to reflect how the wider network has changed.
Nine existing Core Paths are also proposed for realignment, including where development or changes in land management have resulted in alternative routes.
Cllr Paul Garner, spokesperson for Environment, said:
A lot has changed across our path network since the Core Paths Plan was adopted in 2010, with routes developed and improved across the area.
“This review is about bringing the plan up to date by formally recognising existing routes that now meet the criteria to become Core Paths.
“We want people to look at the proposals for their area and tell us what they think, including whether there are other routes they believe should be considered.
Have your say
Residents, path users, landowners and other interested groups can view the draft Revised Core Paths Plan here.
A number of engagement events will also take place during the consultation, giving people the opportunity to find out more about the proposals and speak to the team.
Drop in to any of the following events:
- Tuesday 1st September 1pm to 4pm Boness Library
- Tuesday 8th September 1pm to 4pm Falkirk Library
- Thursday 17th September 1pm to 4pm Denny Library
- Wednesday 23rd September 5pm to 7pm online. Register here
People can comment on existing or proposed Core Paths and proposed changes, as well as suggest additional existing routes for consideration. Suggested routes will be assessed against the criteria used to determine whether they should be designated as Core Paths.
All representations received during the consultation will be considered before the Revised Core Paths Plan is finalised.