Tag: cycling

Tour De France 2027 will start in Edinburgh

FULL UK HOST TOWNS AND CITIES REVEALED

  • Full route revealed for the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de France in Scotland 
  • Start and finish locations announced for 2027 dual Grand Départs in the UK 
  • ‘Yellow Line’ illumination links all 10 host towns and cities across the UK 
  • ‘Joy’ social impact programme launched to tackle three core missions

The full route of the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de France has been revealed, confirming how the world’s biggest annual sporting event will begin when the men’s race gets underway in Scotland. 

The opening stage will start in Edinburgh on Friday 2 July 2027, before heading south through Midlothian, the Scottish Borders, and Dumfries and Galloway, tackling the day’s sole categorised climb on the Côte de Melrose amidst the Eildon Hills, before crossing the border and finishing in Carlisle, outside the city’s medieval castle. 

While Edinburgh was confirmed last year as host of the Grand Départ, last night’s announcement provides the first detailed look at the Scottish route, underlining Scotland’s role in setting the tone for the 2027 Tour de France as it begins three days of racing on British roads. 

To mark the moment, Edinburgh Castle was illuminated as part of a coordinated UK-wide “Tour de Skies” celebration, with a yellow beam lighting up the capital’s skyline. The activation linked Scotland with nine other host towns and cities across England and Wales, creating a single national moment of anticipation ahead of the historic Grand Départs. 

Alongside the announcement of the full UK route for the men’s event, Leeds was also confirmed as the start location for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. The race will kick off on Friday 30 July 2027 from the Yorkshire city, before crossing the Pennines to Manchester, then returning to Sheffield via the climbs of the Peak District before concluding with a showpiece stage in London.  

Following the first stage, the men’s race will head to Keswick, Liverpool and Welshpool, finishing the UK leg of the world’s biggest annual sporting event in Cardiff.   

Alongside the host venues, first details of Joy, the social impact programme that will embed community impact at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ was announced, while British Cycling also confirmed that 7,000 volunteers will be recruited to support the delivery of the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event.  

Screenshot

John Swinney, First Minister of Scotland: “An iconic sporting event like the Tour de France starting on Edinburgh’s historic streets will be a truly memorable moment for Scotland. From our capital city, the stage will see the cyclists racing through some of our most beautiful countryside in Midlothian, the Scottish Borders – where they will face a tough test on the climb of the Côte de Melrose – and finally Dumfries and Galloway.

“Places such as Newtongrange, with its rich mining heritage; Galashiels, home to Scotland’s textile industry; and Canonbie, on the River Esk, will put their unique stamps on and become part of the history of this legendary event. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase some of the best of Scotland to millions of cycling fans around the world, whether they are watching from home or joining the many people here who will have the opportunity to see some of the world’s finest athletes competing on the streets of their towns and villages.” 

Christian Prudhomme, Director, Tour de France (ASO): “The UK has always welcomed the Tour with passion and pride, and the route details we are revealing today reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain’s terrain.

“Bringing both Grand Départs here is a testament to the strength of our partnership with British Cycling and the enthusiasm of the UK.” 

Marion Rousse, Director, Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift: “The United Kingdom has played an important role in the history of women’s cycling, with champions such as Lizzie Armitstead-Deignan.

“Starting the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in Leeds is a strong choice, closely linked to this heritage and to the enthusiasm of a public that knows and loves the Tour. These stages clearly reflect the race’s ambition: to continue growing women’s cycling and to inspire future generations.” 

Lizzie Deignan, British road and track racing world champion: “Racing the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift has been one of the highlights of my career, and seeing the women’s edition go from strength to strength has been genuinely inspiring.

“To know that both the men’s and women’s races will start here in 2027, and especially that the women will come to my home roads of Yorkshire, is truly special. This is a huge moment for the sport and an opportunity that will inspire countless women and girls to get on their bikes.” 

Scottish Cycling’s Head of Performance and Coaching, David Somerville: “Since the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ was announced last year, the Scottish Cycling community has been waiting with bated breath to see where the route would go after departing from Edinburgh, so today is a huge milestone. 

“2025 saw two Scottish riders take to the start for the first time, and there is a strong chance we could build on that in 2027. 

“What’s even more special is that for the likes of Oscar Onley and Sean Flynn, the route will head on roads they’ve used in training many times as young riders dreaming of racing in the biggest bike race in the world.” 

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “I have no doubt that the Tour de France Grand Depart will cement our reputation on the global stage.

“Edinburgh is well used to hosting major festivals and events, and this is an excellent opportunity to showcase the city. To have the world’s largest annual sporting event setting off from the Capital will be a moment of great pride for our residents and will bring our city to new audiences all over the world.  

“From boosting our local economy, through to promoting an active lifestyle, greater general participation in cycling, and increased use of active travel infrastructure – I’m confident that the wider legacy of the Tour de France will be a positive one for Edinburgh.” 

Midlothian Council Leader Kelly Parry: “We’re thrilled to welcome world-class cycling to Midlothian. Being part of the Tour de France Grand Départ is an incredible opportunity to showcase our stunning landscapes to a global audience and inspire generations to embrace the sport. 

“We’ll be proud to say a big ‘bonjour’ to the Tour and, working closely with our communities, ensure this moment leaves a lasting economic, social, and cultural legacy for Midlothian.” 

Councillor Euan Jardine, Leader of Scottish Borders Council: ““It is an incredible honour for the Scottish Borders to host the majority of Stage 1 of the 2027 Tour de France as it makes its way through our beautiful countryside and towns from Edinburgh to Carlisle.  

“We are passionate about cycling in the Scottish Borders and committed to getting more people on bikes for commuting, pleasure and sport. The Tour de France will provide a huge boost in that respect, and it will also deliver other really valuable social and economic impacts to the area.   

“Stage 1 will showcase the South of Scotland as Scotland’s leading cycle destination to an enormous audience around the world and those that come to watch the race in-person, and we can’t wait to welcome them all.”  

Dumfries and Galloway Council Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee Chair, Cllr Tracey Little: “Dumfries and Galloway Council is thrilled to be playing a part in the 2027 Tour de France. It is widely regarded as cycling’s premier event and is viewed by millions of people for each kilometre of the race. 

“We have a proud history with cycling in our region and this latest chapter of hosting world-class cycling will only add to this. 

“Dumfries and Galloway also has strong links with Kirkpatrick MacMillan, who of course built the first ever bicycle as we know it. Our council is looking forward to being part of the action and the social and community benefits that it brings.” 

Stephanie Peacock, Minister for Sport, Tourism, Civil Society and Youth: “These routes will reach places few other events can and give people another reason to be proud of where they live. All over the country, they’ll see world-class cyclists pass through their towns, down their high streets and maybe even right past their front doors.  

“Events like the Tour de France bring communities together, boost local economies and inspire more people to discover the benefits of sport. We cannot wait to welcome these iconic races next year.” 

Simon Morton, Director of Events, UK Sport: “Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of what we expect to be the biggest free-to-attend event ever to be held on these shores.  

“Our vision was to host a massive sporting event that would genuinely thread together the countries, cities, and communities of Great Britain, and show what we can achieve when we work together.

“The route details announced today do just that, enabling us to reach, unite, and inspire people right across the country – providing moments of joy for millions, bringing communities together, and delivering lasting benefits beyond race day. 

“We believe that live sport is a fundamental part of our society, and that the British public should be able to access and attend big events. By hosting the initial stages of both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, we’re bringing one of the world’s greatest sporting events directly to people’s doorsteps.  

“We at UK Sport are delighted to be playing our part and are proud to support the partners working together to make the 2027 Grand Départs a success.” 

Jon Dutton, Chief Executive, British Cycling: “The Grand Départs in 2027 are about so much more than six unforgettable stages of racing – it’s about unlocking lasting change for communities right across Britain. 

“Through Joy – our collective, game-changing social impact programme – we will put opportunity, wellbeing and community pride right at the heart of this moment in sporting history. 

“By working with partners and creating new, varied ways for people to connect with cycling – whether by riding, volunteering, supporting locally, or engaging through culture and community activity – we can break down barriers and open the sport up in ways that meet people where they are. 

“This is a once‑in‑a‑generation chance to build a healthier, more active and more connected nation. It shows the power of major events when they’re done right, and British Cycling is proud to help deliver a legacy that will be felt long after the peloton has left UK shores.” 

Paul Bush, Managing Director, Grand Départ GB 2027: “Revealing these new route details of the opening stages is a huge moment for everyone involved and my thanks to all our partners.

“The UK has hosted unforgettable Grand Départs before, but 2027 will be bigger than anything we’ve seen – with both the men’s and women’s pelotons starting here together for the historic very first time.

“This will be a “moment for the Nation” and is a once in a generation opportunity to inspire more people to experience the joy and freedom of cycling.” 

Social impact 

Alongside the route announcement, organisers also revealed Joy, the social impact programme at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ, that aims to tackle inactivity and improve mental wellbeing, support communities to thrive, and to make Britain more productive and prosperous. 

Six core programmes will be rolled out across the home nations, with organisers working collaboratively with governments, local councils, core delivery partners and community representatives to create opportunities for young people to develop their skills, break down barriers for girls in sport, and to showcase community culture through the voices of Britain. 

Additionally, British Cycling will look to recruit more than 7,000 volunteers for the Grand Départ, inviting people across the UK to play a hands-on role in delivering the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event. Thousands of opportunities will be available across route operations, spectator support and community engagement, offering people of all ages the chance to be part of Tour history, with more details to be announced when the programme is launched in the spring. 

To find out more information and keep up-to-date with the 2027 Grand Départs, please visit letourgb.com  

Spokes public meeting: Cargobikes in Edinburgh – with MOTHERLOAD film

TUESDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER from 7.15 – 9pm

Cargobikes are seen more and more in Edinburgh, and the potential is massive, as in many European cities and elsewhere around the world.

Our public meeting on 2 September will feature the 90-minute documentary film MOTHERLOAD – a mother’s experience of how cargo bikes can be an antidote to the increasing isolation, disconnection, and planetary impact of life in C21.

The meeting will then hear from local organisations in the forefront of cargobike development in Edinburgh, including…

A great opportunity to hear what is happening in Edinburgh and around the world, and to put forward your ideas and suggestions in the QA.

Arrangements

  • Where Augustine United Church 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EL
  • Date Tuesday 2 September
  • Time  Starts 7.15, Ends 9.30.  Doors open 6.30 for coffee, stalls and chat, including a special stall to join Spokes or renew your membership. NOTE: the meeting begins (and doors open) 15 minutes earlier than our usual 7.30/6.45 times
  • Questions Questions can be emailed (at least a day in advance) to spokes@spokes.org.uk. However, questions in person from audience members are likely to have greatest priority
  • Online We hope to live broadcast on our youtube channel – and publish the recording later. NOTE: for licensing reasons, the livestream and recording will not include the film
  • Social media If posting about the meeting, use hashtag #SpokesMtg

Background & Links

Cyclist to ascend equivalent of Mount Everest in cycle around Scotland for Samaritans 

Cyclist to ascend equivalent of mount Everest in cycle around Scotland for Samaritans 

Meet Neil Beattie, a Shetland-based Council team-leader, who will be taking on an Everest sized cycle and meeting Samaritans volunteers across Scotland’s towns and cities to raise funds for the suicide prevention charity next week. 

Neil’s fundraising challenge will take him from Shetland to Selkirk and back again, through some of Scotland’s toughest terrains on a two-week journey. Throughout the (roughly) 1200-mile cycle, Neil will accumulate a climb of more than 30,000 feet, higher than the world’s tallest mountain. 

Having completed charity bike rides previously, including from Land’s End to John O’ Groats and in Vietnam, this particular challenge holds a significant place in Neil’s heart. Speaking about Samaritans as his chosen charity, Neil said:  

“My mum was previously the Regional Director at Samaritans Scotland, and dedicated numerous years as a volunteer to the charity and their mission to see fewer deaths by suicide in Scotland. 

“Sixteen years after first planning this ride, I set off on the 23rd July to raise funds for this wonderful charity and the volunteers that offer people someone to turn to when they feel they have no one.  

“Any donation, big or small will help someone with suicidal thoughts get help when they need it most.” 

Neil is set to depart Shetland’s Samaritans in Lerwick on the 23rd of July, cycling to the ferry port where he will set sail for the mainland to continue his journey down through the country to the Borders, then heading up to Orkney and finally back to Shetland again, meeting with volunteers all along the way. 

A fundraising page has been set up here where you can make a donation to support Neil’s huge effort and the vital work of Samaritans Scotland.  

When we feel low, the smallest tasks can feel like a mountain to climb. It can seem like the journey to feeling better is an uphill battle. Neil’s journey shows that when we break our challenges down into smaller stretches, we can make it through. We can keep believing in tomorrow. 

By donating to Neil’s fundraiser, you are helping someone with suicidal thoughts to talk to somebody who will listen in their most difficult moments. 

Samaritans Scotland’s vision is for a Scotland where everyone can get the right help and support when they need it most, and where fewer lives are lost to suicide. It has provided a vital lifeline for people in crisis and distress for more than six decades since the first branch in Scotland answered their first call for help in 1959. 

Anyone can call Samaritans on our free helpline at any time on 116 123 – even on a phone without credit – or email jo@samaritans.org.  

R2: Pedal and Paint community event

FRIDAY 20 JUNE 2 – 4pm at GYPSY BRAE

Come along to this special Community Cycling & Walking event on Friday 20 June!

Festival of Movement this Saturday

SATURDAY 29th MARCH in LINLITHGOW

📣 Scotland’s first Festival of Movement will soon come to Linlithgow! We are delighted to now reveal the full programme for the day.

Join us across Linlithgow, from the West Lothian Cycle Route to The Cross, on Saturday 29 March for a free, fun-filled day of opportunities to get moving, from in-line skating to led cycles, as well as talks, discussions and creative workshops for all ages and abilities.

Discover the programme here: https://bit.ly/4iD9z3J

This one-day-only event is organised by Move For Good, Linlithgow Community Development Trust’s project for active and sustainable travel.

Follow @moveforgood_ on Instagram for all updates!

Festival-of-Movement-2025-ProgrammeDownload

Spokes Public Meeting, Wednesday 30th April: Cycling as part of Edinburgh’s Transport Policy

A first opportunity to hear Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, the Council’s new Transport Convener, speak on the role of cycling as part of Edinburgh City Council’s transport policy.

Cllr Jenkinson will be accompanied by Deborah Paton, Head of Transport, Strategy and Partnership at the Council. Deborah has considerable previous transport and active travel policy experience, including at Glasgow and West Lothian Councils.

Followed by our always-anticipated one-hour panel QA, chaired by Helen Todd, chair of Planning Democracy and former Ramblers Scotland policy manager.

At the start of his convenership, Cllr Jenkinson said there has been a great deal of consultation and policy development in the last few years, resulting in the Mobility Plan and other excellent policies under Future Streets … and that his priority would now be delivery.

This is a chance to hear what is happening, and to put forward your priorities, ideas and concerns in the QA.

2503 Poster, Cllr Jenkinson mtgDownload

Arrangements

Further information and press queries

Phone, until 7 April: 0131 313 2114 from 8 April: 07982 278936

or email spokes@spokes.org.uk [reply may be a day or two]

Investment in landmark cycle routes delivering record share of journeys by bike in Scotland

— Record proportion of journeys being made by bike on Edinburgh’s new City Centre route and Glasgow’s South City Way —

— Over 1,700 more people cycling on Glasgow’s South City Way in two-day survey period in September 2024 vs 2023, a 46% annual increase —

— Edinburgh’s City Centre West to East Link sees additional 1,000 people cycling in two-day survey period in January 2025 vs 2024, an 83% annual increase —

— Evidence of wider impact of South City Way, with growth in cycling on nearby streets

New traffic data collated by Cycling Scotland, Scotland’s national cycling charity, has revealed the growing success of two new landmark cycle routes in Glasgow and Edinburgh, and their impact in supporting more people to travel by bike.

Over a 48-hour period in September 2024, traffic surveys recorded 5,457 bikes on the South City Way cycle route on Victoria Road in the south of Glasgow. This was out of a total of 36,417 travel methods recorded, meaning that 15% of people cycled their journey – a new record cycling modal share for an urban street in Scotland.

Overall, 1,718 more bike journeys were recorded on the South City Way over the two-day survey period in September 2024, compared to the same period in September 2023. This is a 46% year-on-year growth in the number of people cycling along the route.

Illustrating the wider impact of the route, cycling was recorded as accounting for 4.3% of journeys on nearby Nithsdale Road, which has no safe cycle lanes, but which connects the nearby area of Pollokshields to the South City Way.

The number of people cycling on Nithsdale Road increased by 45% from September 2023 to September 2024, with nearby Allison Street also recording a 22% increase in cycling over the same period.

Edinburgh’s City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL) – which connects Roseburn to the city centre – recorded a cycling modal share of 8.3% in September 2024, just nine months after it was completed.

A 48-hour traffic survey conducted in January 2025 on the CCWEL recorded a total of 2,199 people cycling on the West Coates section – 1,000 more bike journeys compared to the same two-day period in January 2024, shortly after construction of the route. This is a 83% year-on-year growth in the number of people cycling along this route.

Glasgow’s South City Way is one of the most ambitious urban cycle routes in the country, showcasing what investment in a good quality network of safe cycling routes can achieve. Running for 3km, the route’s fully separated, on-street cycle lanes provide a high-quality, direct link between communities in Glasgow’s Southside and the city centre.

The route was developed by Glasgow City Council and Sustrans, with cross-party support and funding from Sustrans’ Places for Everyone Programme. Glasgow City Council continues to expand it further, with new connections planned through development of the citywide network of active travel routes.

Officially opened in early 2024, Edinburgh’s 4km City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL) provides a high-quality west-east cycling route connecting Roseburn in the city’s West End to Picardy Place, via Haymarket Rail Station.

The project included improved road crossings, footways, street surfacing and greening improvements along the route, and was delivered by City of Edinburgh Council, with funding from Transport Scotland through Sustrans’ Places For Everyone programme, alongside additional funding from the Scottish Government and the Council’s transport budget.

At Picardy Place, the CCWEL now connects to the 2km Leith Walk cycle route, which saw a total of 580,000 cycle journeys in 2024 – a 40% increase on the number of cycle journeys recorded in 2023.

Cycling Scotland organises traffic surveys across Scotland to monitor changes in travel behaviour, working in partnership with all 32 local authorities at over 100 locations. Conducted biannually in May and September each year, these nationwide traffic surveys help to track changes in modal share, highlighting how new high-quality cycle routes such as this are supporting more people to make sustainable journeys.

Annalise, a commuter who cycles with her son to school along Glasgow’s South City Way several times a week, shared her thoughts on the route: “It’s brilliant to have this and it makes such a difference.

“I’ve lived in other parts of the city that don’t have anything like this, and I didn’t cycle as much as I do now. We cycle together to school a few days a week, and I then use the route the rest of the way to get to work in the centre.

“It saves me so much time.”

Julie, who uses the CCWEL to cycle to work in Edinburgh city centre said: “This is a route I take every day. It makes a huge difference in terms of how safe you feel.

“The biggest difference I’ve noticed are the different types of people on the road as well as regular commuters. So many school kids using it and people with cargo bikes. It’s joyful to see more people using their bikes.”

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP, said: “I’m pleased to welcome this latest evidence from Cycling Scotland.

“It confirms what cities around the world and here in Scotland already know – where you create a safer environment for cycling through quality infrastructure and support to use it, you see more people cycling.

“In turn, this means more people living healthier lives, saving money, leaving their car at home and reducing their emissions.

“To support the continued ambitions and leadership of our towns and cities – and to make walking, wheeling and cycling easier for shorter everyday journeys, in 2025-26 the Scottish Government will invest £188 million to make it even easier for people to choose sustainable active travel.”

Councillor Angus Millar, Convener for Transport and Climate at Glasgow City Council said: “The continued growth in the number of people using the South City Way demonstrates that when we build safe, segregated and accessible active travel infrastructure, Glaswegians will come and make use of it.

“It’s clear that rebalancing our roads by adding active travel infrastructure helps people feel more at ease when cycling and leads to a roads network that’s fairer for everyone. We know that many people only feel comfortable choosing the bike for everyday journeys where they have confidence that they can make use of safe, segregated cycle infrastructure for most or all of their route.

“With the recent completion of the final phase of the South City Way to Candleriggs in the city centre and ongoing work to extend the active travel network with the Connecting Battlefield project, the success of this key corridor is a great blueprint for Glasgow as we work to deliver our plans for a comprehensive City Network of segregated cycle infrastructure to connect communities across the city.”

Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, Transport and Environment Convener at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Here in Edinburgh, it’s really encouraging to see these new figures which reflect the increased popularity and patronage of the CCWEL since its opening last year.

“Equally, the increase in cycle journeys at the junction of Picardy Place and Leith Walk is very welcome news. Providing quality active travel infrastructure across our city remains a key priority and I’m determined that this will continue.

“It’s clear that by providing these amenities which allow active travel in a safe, simple and integrated way we’ll see an uptake in use. In order to fulfil our climate objectives and goals for mobility in the city, we have a responsibility to our residents and visitors to maintain, improve and expand this infrastructure.

“Indeed, just a few months ago we saw the opening of the Roseburn to Union Canal route and with ongoing projects like Leith Connections and Meadows to George Street I’m really optimistic looking forward.”

Keith Irving, Chief Executive of Cycling Scotland, said: “This is yet more evidence that when Scotland builds high quality cycling infrastructure, it gets more people cycling.

“Given that cycling journeys typically account for around 2% of traffic on urban streets, the fact we are now seeing four to seven times that number of journeys being cycled on these routes – together with the huge growth in cycling numbers – shows just what can be achieved when Scotland invests in safe cycling routes.

“Road safety is the single biggest barrier to more people cycling, and the strong success of these landmark routes demonstrates clearly that investing in well-connected, dedicated cycling lanes is having an impact: helping more people to travel safely and affordably, benefiting our health, reducing harmful pollution and our impact on the climate.

“We need more safe cycling routes just like these, to bring the benefits to more people across Scotland.”

Further data on cycle rates in Scotland can be found on the Cycling Open Data Portal.

A full breakdown of the data, with supporting data visualisations, can be found on the Cycling Scotland website.

Back in the Saddle: New Course Helps Seniors Rediscover Cycling Joy

Edinburgh Leisure is seeking new participants as it launches an innovative 11-week cycling course, starting Monday, 3rd March, designed specifically for older adults looking to rebuild their cycling confidence. The programme offers a supportive environment for those eager to return to cycling after years away from the handlebars.

The course, based at Saughton Sports Centre’s 400m traffic-free track, uses Cycling Scotland’s acclaimed Bikeability curriculum to help participants regain their cycling prowess. At just £3 per week, or £33 for the block, the programme provides bikes, helmets, and Hi-Viz vests, though participants are welcome to bring their own equipment.

“Cycling is a great way to keep fit, active and mobile while enjoying Edinburgh’s amazing network of dedicated cycle paths,” says Cat Wilson, Edinburgh Leisure’s Project Officer for Older Adults.

“Whether you want to join grandchildren on family rides or meet new people, our experienced volunteers will help you rediscover the joy of cycling at your own pace.”

The course features:

  • Professional instruction in essential skills including safe stopping, proper signalling, and gear management
  • A traffic-free learning environment
  • Fully qualified, passionate volunteer instructors
  • All necessary equipment provided
  • Social, relaxed atmosphere with like-minded participants

Upon completing the initial course, participants can progress to an 8-week Level 2 programme, where they’ll explore Edinburgh’s cycle paths using their newly refined skills.

Important Notes:

  • This is not a beginners’ course but is designed for those who have previously cycled
  • Suitable for adults aged 50 and above
  • No current cycling experience required
  • All abilities welcome

The Ageing Well project, a partnership between NHS Lothian, Edinburgh Leisure, and Pilmeny Development Project, is part of the UK Ageing Well network dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles for older adults and increasing expectations of good health in later life.

For registration, information and to register your interest: Phone: 0131 458 2260 Email: active@edinburghleisure.co.uk

Scots Paralympians congratulated

First Minister: athletes at the top of their fields inspirational

As the 2024 Paralympic Games draws to a close, First Minister John Swinney has commended Scottish athletes for their world-class performances which will inspire future generations.

21 Scottish athletes took part individually or in team events, securing 11 gold medals, eight silver medals and one bronze medal – contributing to ParalympicsGB’s overall medals tally of 124 medals.

Athletes from Scotland broke records in pursuit of gold medals, including Stephen Clegg’s record-breaking S12 backstroke time, Jenny Holl’s effort as pilot for Sophie Unwin on her way to gold and a world record in the Women’s B 3,000m individual cycling pursuit, and Sammi Kinghorn achieving a gold medal while setting a new Paralympic Record for the Women’s T53 100m.

The First Minister said: “I want to pay tribute to and congratulate all of the ParalympicsGB squad, including the 21 Scots on the team, for your performances in Paris.

“You are all athletes at the top of your field, and Scotland has been cheering you on throughout these Games.

“Your performances will inspire people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to take up sport, achieve their own goals and become more active in their own lives. The next generation will be inspired by where you are now, and the Scottish Government and partners will work to ensure there will be opportunities for them to follow suit.”

Forbes Dunlop, CEO of sportscotland, said: “On behalf of everyone at sportscotland I want to congratulate every single one of the Scottish athletes who have represented Paralympics GB in Paris over the last couple of weeks.

“There have been some extremely strong performances from our athletes, including personal bests, Paralympic and World records and a very impressive haul of medals, demonstrating the enormous level of commitment and talent across the team. 

“All of this success is down to years of hard work from the athletes, their coaches and their wider support teams including Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport and the sportscotland institute of sport and we are proud to be part of the ‘team behind team’ supporting the athletes.”

Gavin Macleod, CEO of Scottish Disability Sport, said: “Congratulations to all the Scottish Paralympians and their significant support networks in Paris.

“The performances are testimony to the inclusive approach Scottish Governing Bodies of sport are taking to ensuring para-athletes are supported.

“Not all of us will be able to reach the heights of these international high-performance athletes however, what we can do is commit to working in partnership to ensure that children, young people and adults can access quality PE, comprehensive sporting opportunities and the chance to move more every day.” 

Edinburgh sees record number of people travelling by bike

More than 2,000 daily bike trips on Leith Walk in May, following completion of cycle lanes between Leith and Picardy Place

New traffic data collated by Cycling Scotland, Scotland’s national cycling charity, has revealed how the growing network of cycle routes in Edinburgh is encouraging record numbers of people to travel by bike.

Through May 2024, a daily average of 1,812 bikes were recorded travelling on the cycleway on Leith Walk, with a peak of 2,107 journeys on 30th May.[1]

Demonstrating the significant year-on-year growth in cycling on Leith Walk, a total of 219,070 bike journeys were recorded along the route between January 2024 and the end of May 2024 – almost double the number recorded over the same time period in 2022 (117,969). Data shows that cycling volumes are at their highest during commuting times, indicating many people are using the route for everyday journeys.

Data was captured by an automatic counter located on the cycle path at Picardy Place, one of Cycling Scotland’s nationwide network of counters, funded by Transport Scotland to help measure cycling levels across Scotland.

In addition, a survey organised by Cycling Scotland to monitor traffic over a 48-hour period between 15th and 16th May, recorded that bikes accounted for 9.1% of all journeys on Leith Walk: a level of modal share rarely seen in Scotland.

A person cycling on Melville Street separated cycle lane, part of the City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL) route in Edinburgh

On the other side of the city centre, Melville Street also recorded a high cycling modal share of 6.4%. The number of cycling journeys in Edinburgh is up 12% compared to May 2023, and up 19% compared to May 2022.

The sustained growth in bike journeys seen on Leith Walk comes after the completion of fully separated two-way cycle lanes along the 2km route, as part of the Trams to Newhaven project, connecting communities in Leith and Edinburgh’s city centre. The route was developed by City of Edinburgh Council, with funding from the Scottish Government.

The route has also recently connected to the newly opened 4km City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL), which runs from Roseburn to Picardy Place via Haymarket Train Station, and is already seeing increases in cycling.

The results in Edinburgh follow on from an autumn 2023 traffic survey in Glasgow, which similarly revealed record levels of cycling along the newly completed South City Way.

Elspeth at Leith Walk

Leith resident Elspeth, who uses the Leith Walk and CCWEL routes to cycle to work in Edinburgh Park several times a week, said: “I use the Leith Walk cycle lanes regularly – for travelling to work but also for lots of other shorter journeys, like popping into town or visiting friends.

“The separated cycle lanes have made my bike journeys so much more relaxed, and thanks to CCWEL, it’s now almost completely on separated cycle lanes. It means I can go whatever pace suits me without feeling rushed with traffic on my tail.”

“I love how it gives me independence and allows me to get about town. I find getting around by bike is great for my physical and mental health, and I love the passing waves and nods from other people on bikes in the morning!”

People cycling on Leith Walk

Rowan Simpson, Monitoring and Development Officer at Cycling Scotland, said: “It’s really encouraging to see more than 2,000 people are cycling on Leith Walk each day – yet more evidence that where Scotland builds networks of connected cycling routes, separated from vehicle traffic, more people travel by bike.

“We know that road safety is the single biggest barrier to more people cycling, and the early success of Leith Walk and City Centre West to East Link underlines the critical role of safe, convenient, separated cycle routes, if more people are to choose cycling for short and medium journeys.”

“The new cycle routes make it possible to cycle to Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket stations more safely, supporting multi-modal journeys by bike and public transport and helping more people to choose sustainable transport.

“With transport the largest source of carbon emissions in Scotland, we need to help more people to cycle, walk and wheel safely. Investing in dedicated, separated cycling lanes, limiting polluting traffic growth and helping everyone to access bikes, training and bike storage are all key actions to reduce our climate impact and improve health.”

Person cycling southbound on Leith Walk

Transport and Environment Convener of City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Scott Arthur, said: “These are really exciting counts that showcase the significant growth in cycling on Leith Walk following completion of the Trams to Newhaven project and the connection with the recently opened City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL).

“The Leith Connections project will be continuing the segregated cycle infrastructure and public space improvements, from the Foot of the Walk northwards, first to Commercial Street and ultimately to Ocean Terminal in the north, Hawthornvale path in the west and Seafield in the east.

“This improved connectivity, and better active travel and public transport links support our wider ambitions to achieve net zero by 2030 and active travel across Edinburgh.

“Once the Leith Connections project is complete, this improved route will not only provide a safer environment for people walking, wheeling and cycling but will transform the area to create a more pleasant, welcoming space to spend time.”

Person cycling northbound on Leith Walk

Karen McGregor, Scotland Director at Sustrans, added: “Edinburgh residents want to safely and easily get around without needing to rely on a car. This new data shows the demand that can be unlocked by delivering safe walking, wheeling and cycling links like the City Centre West to East Link.

“People in Edinburgh know that every time they decide to travel under their own steam, they are helping their health, our planet and improving the quality of the air we all breathe – and delivering more of these opportunities has support across the city.

“It’s so important to build on the success of projects like CCWEL and deliver even more high-quality, active connections which give everyone fairer, better choices to reach the places they need to.”

Further data on cycle rates in Scotland can be found on the Cycling Open Data Portal.