For one of Scotland’s smallest regions, Inverclyde packs a punch. Sustrans has been working in partnership with Inverclyde Council to better connect the area for walking, wheeling and cycling. Find out about the recent projects making active travel a more realistic and enjoyable choice for locals and tourists.
Coastal National Cycle Network routes make for scenic journeys in Inverclyde. Credit: Michael Kelly/Sustrans.
A National Cycle Network for everyone
Two resurfacing projects have improved large stretches of the National Cycle Network in Inverclyde.
Previously, the section of National Cycle Network Route 753 between Lunderston Bay and Inverkip Marina was a narrow, stoney, single track unsuitable for wheelchairs or buggies.
Having undergone surface improvements and widening, the new path is now accessible for all, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy getting active along the stunning coastal route.
As a link to local amenities and the nearby town of Gourock, the improvements also support local people to walk, wheel or cycle for more of their everyday journeys.
The new path is regularly used by the local Kip Hub Cycle Group, who run led rides every week from May till October.
Inverkip Hub Centre Manager, Kevin Rogers, said:
“The group venture out on different routes usually through the Marina to join the new path at Lunderston Bay and continue as far as Ocean Terminal on a good day.
"The new path is brilliant, especially for those less confident, as the old path was dangerous at points.
"It is also great as walkers, cyclists and dog walkers can all utilise the space, which was an issue in the past.”
The upgraded path between Lunderston Bay and Inverkip Marina boasts views of the coastline. Credit: Sustrans.
Over on National Cycle Network Route 75, a 3.4km long section between Kilmacolm and Auchenbothie has also been resurfaced and widened.
Previously the path surface was deteriorating, with trip hazards, overgrown vegetation and bollards making the route difficult to use.
The resurfaced path is now 3m wide, making it accessible for people walking, cycling, using a wheelchair, or pushing a buggy.
Bollards have been redesigned or removed to ensure continued access for everyone, and vegetation clearance and new signage have improved navigation and visibility.
Adapted bike user Sam uses the NCN 75 route and explains why removing barriers is so important.
These improvements, funded through Sustrans’ Network Development programme, have made local National Cycle Network routes in Inverclyde safer and more accessible for everyone to use and enjoy.
Spotlight on Greenock: enhancing the high street
Sustrans also worked with Inverclyde Council, alongside Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), on a major transformation project in Greenock’s town centre.
The West Blackhall Street project, which was funded through Sustrans’ Places for Everyone programme and completed in February 2025, has modernised Greenock’s traditional high street.
Segregated cycle paths have been introduced, alongside wider pavements, whilst maintaining vehicle access.
Locals and visitors alike can now spend time enjoying the new public realm areas, with extra seating and trees improving the overall look and feel of the street.
SPT Chair of Operations, Inverclyde Councillor David Wilson, said:
“This is exactly the sort of project which can make such a difference to Inverclyde, improving the area to become a much more pleasant place to visit and support the variety of local business available".
The street is now an accessible, welcoming space for locals to spend time in. Credit: Michael Kelly/Sustrans.
To compliment these improvements, another project funded through Sustrans’s Network Development programme has improved a section of the National Cycle Network Route 75, which links West Blackhall Street to Greenock Esplanade.
Upgraded junctions at Patrick Street and Campbell Street, as well as improvements to 1.8km of the existing traffic-free Esplanade, are now enabling people to walk, wheel and cycle safely and easily between the newly revamped high street and the waterfront.
Integrating rail and active travel: a makeover for Gourock station
April 2024 saw a new shared-use path improve connectivity with public transport in Gourock.
Previously the National Cycle Network Route 75 was interrupted by the station, requiring cyclists to dismount and navigate station platforms and the car park before rejoining the traffic-free path.
The new 210m link now runs through the station, separated from the main concourse by glass panels.
Project partners celebrate the opening of the new National Cycle Network link at Gourock Station.
This allows continuous travel for those walking, wheeling, and cycling on the coastal National Cycle Network route.
Not only is active travel now more enjoyable, the new path has also made onward connections by public transport more convenient.
The route can be joined at various access points in the station, making commuting actively to take the train much easier.
As well as improving onward connections by rail, the new path also links to Gourock Ferry Terminal, where ferries depart to Dunoon and Kilcreggan.
Works were funded through Sustrans’ Network Development programme and delivered through a partnership between Inverclyde Council and Sustrans, with support from Network Rail, Scotrail and Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited.
Bringing colour and local heritage to the National Cycle Network
In April this year, the new National Cycle Network link at Gourock Station was given a colourful upgrade.
A series of digitally designed panels were installed along the active travel route, highlighting the local area to those walking, wheeling and cycling.
The new artwork along the route showcases the best of Inverclyde. Credit: Inverclyde Council.
Again funded through Sustrans’ Network Development programme, the project engaged with the local community to produce the artwork.
The digital mural shines a light on Inverclyde’s history and scenery through quotes and imagery including the Cross of Lorraine, Gourock Pool, and the Perch Lighthouse in Port Glasgow.
Councillor Michael McCormick, Convener of Inverclyde Council’s Environment and Regeneration Committee, welcomed the mural:
“This is a fantastic asset for Inverclyde and is an inviting welcome to both rail passengers and walkers, cyclists and wheelers using the new active travel route through the station.”
Adding a valuable sense of local culture, nature and history to the coastal route and the station, the artwork inspires more people to explore Inverclyde by walking, wheeling, and cycling.
