Local artists have transformed an underpass along National Cycle Network Route 77 between Perth and Almondbank with a series of stunning, nature-focussed artworks.
Paco Graff captured the incredible nature of the local area in his murals.
The artworks were supported by funding from Transport Scotland through Sustrans Scotland’s ArtRoots programme.
This community-driven project has transformed the walking, wheeling and cycling route with striking murals by artist Paco Graff and other local creatives.
Community partnership
The project is a partnership between:
- Sustrans
- Perth and Kinross cycle campaign group, ByCycle
- and Perth and Kinross Council’s Safer Communities Team.
It highlights wildlife native to the well-loved green corridor.
By creating a more welcoming and attractive link along this popular National Cycle Network route, we hope to inspire even more people to walk, wheel and cycle for their journeys in the area.
The art has added vibrancy to the local area, and aims to encourage more people to walk, wheel, and cycle.
A new focal point for the area
Cosmo Blake, Art and Diversity Coordinator at Sustrans Scotland said:
"We have been delighted to support this transformative, community-led project through the ArtRoots fund.
"ArtRoots supports communities in shaping and improving their local National Cycle Network routes.
"And we are inspired by the impact that Paco Graff and the other artists have made with this project along Route 77.
“These stunning new artworks have already become a focal point for the community, and I hope they encourage even more people to plan a walking, wheeling or cycling journey along the National Cycle Network in the area."
Our ArtRoots funding enables local community groups and artists to bring art to their local area.
'First class' outcome
Councillor Bob Brawn, Housing and Community Safety Convenor at Perth and Kinross Council added:
"This area has always been a problem area for us, and Community Safety staff have had to clear graffiti from it on many occasions.
"The path is very well used by residents and unsightly graffiti does nothing to enhance the reputation of the town, is out of place in such a beautiful area and can make people feel unsafe.
"We were delighted to be involved in this initiative by Sustrans and the outcome is first class.
"Congratulations to everyone involved."
Keep reading to find out how you can bring Artroots to your local community.
Inspiring more people to walk, wheel and cycle
Craigie-Lee Paterson from ByCycle, who lead guided cycle rides around Perthshire, said:
"We are very pleased with the exciting new artwork on National Cycle Network Route 77, as it creates a point of interest for everyone walking, wheeling and cycling.
"It has created a reason for many to get on their bike to cycle down and have a look, which is great."
You can find ArtRoots projects all across the UK on many of our National Cycle Network routes.
Sustrans Scotland’s ArtRoots Fund
Sustrans Scotland’s ArtRoots fund is backed by Transport Scotland and seeks to create artistic and visual improvements to the National Cycle Network.
By creating memorable routes which are pleasing to the eye, the fund aims to encourage more people to walk, wheel and cycle further and more often.
