Greens call for new fund to protect & expand Scotland's walking routes
The Scottish Greens are calling on the Scottish Government to establish a dedicated Core Paths Fund in its upcoming Programme for Government, ensuring councils have the resources they need to maintain and improve Scotland's walking network.
The party says a new national fund would help local authorities maintain core paths used by walkers, commuters and visitors, while supporting jobs in rural communities.
Core paths include everything from nationally recognised routes such as the West Highland Way to smaller local paths that connect rural communities. Many remain unmapped or are poorly maintained, limiting access and leaving routes vulnerable to deterioration.
The Scottish Greens say long-term investment would allow councils to map, repair and maintain these routes, making them safer and more accessible for walking, wheeling and cycling, while creating employment opportunities for rural path builders.
Scottish Greens Rural Affairs spokesperson Ariane Burgess MSP said:
"Core paths are used every day by walkers, commuters and visitors across Scotland, yet too many have been left to deteriorate, becoming muddy, inaccessible and even unsafe.
"That's why I'm calling on the Scottish Government to commit to a dedicated Core Paths Fund in its next Programme for Government, giving councils the resources they need to restore these vital routes and quite literally put them on the map.
"Investing in our path network would improve access to nature, support active travel and create skilled jobs in rural communities where they're needed most.
"Scotland is home to some of the world's most spectacular landscapes. A Core Paths Fund would help ensure everyone can experience them safely by walking, wheeling or cycling, while protecting these routes for generations to come."