Muddy woodland route transformed into accessible greenway
National Cycle Network Route 75 from Coatbridge leaves the Monkland Canal and runs through the Oakridge Estate Community Woodlands to reach Bargeddie.
The path in muddy conditions (Image: Supplied) Oakridge Greenway is designed and constructed by Sustrans.
Chris Brace, principal network development manager at Sustrans, said: "The path's transformation is truly like night and day.
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"We are thrilled to have made these vital improvements, meaning people in Bargeddie and the surrounding area can now choose to walk, wheel or cycle for more of their local journeys.
"The National Cycle Network is the backbone of our infrastructure for active travel, connecting communities across Scotland.
(Image: Supplied) "But it also provides us with unique access to local nature.
"Improvements like the Oakridge Greenway project allow more people to not only get active but to get out into green spaces – ultimately feeling healthier, happier and more connected to where they live."
The route had previously never been surfaced, which led to muddy conditions and limited use during wet weather.
(Image: Supplied) This made it difficult for wheelchair users, people with prams, and cyclists to use the path.
To address this, Sustrans worked with the community to redesign the path with an all-weather, accessible surface.
Environmental considerations were central to the project, with a 'no-dig' approach, a floating path design, and a tree root protection membrane included to protect the woodland.
Friends of Monklands Canal, a local group, were consulted throughout the project.
Alan McCormack, chairman of the group, said: "It's fair to say the new path is a game changer for the local community and Friends of Monklands Canal.
"As a gateway to the canal and beyond, the benefits it will provide over its lifetime will be immeasurable to people's physical and mental health."
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