The first stage of a re-purposing of the A199 in East Lothian to create a shared-use path for walking, wheeling and cycling is getting underway.
I’m delighted that work is starting on the first stage of the Active Freeway which will provide a safe travel option for people walking, wheeling and cycling.
Work is commencing on Monday at East Linton to take an on-road section of National Cycle Network Route 76, which currently runs along Mill Wynd, and create a segregated active travel path.
Crossing points will also be improved, including across the A199 between Lauder Place and Brae Heads Loan, to make it safer and more accessible for people travelling actively.
This is part of a wider proposed ‘Active Freeway’ which aspires to link Dunbar through East Linton, Haddington and Tranent to Musselburgh and on to Edinburgh.
Efficient commuter route
The scheme has the potential to be an efficient commuter route, as well as providing crucial walking, wheeling and cycling connections locally.
The first phase of the Active Freeway is being funded by £350,000 from the Scottish Government and designed and delivered through a partnership between East Lothian Council and Sustrans.
Construction work at East Linton is planned between 2 December 2024 and 31 January 2025, with limited works taking place between 20 December and 6 January.
The area affected will run from Mill Wynd at the Phantassie Roundabout and continue along Mill Wynd to the junction with Lauder Place. The works will then continue along Lauder Place to the junction with Pencraig Brae.
Signage in place
During construction there will be closures to sections of the footway and lane closures on the road. Signage and traffic management will be in place to advise of alternative routes.
The Active Freeway is proposed to be constructed in stages as funding opportunities become available.
Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “I’m delighted that work is starting on the first stage of the Active Freeway which will provide a safe travel option for people walking, wheeling and cycling.
“East Lothian Council is committed to improving health and well-being by reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. The Active Freeway will provide a designated route for people to use, whether they are commuting or out enjoying the countryside.”
"Ambitious plan"
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “I’m pleased that work is underway in East Linton for a new active travel route along the A199 – funded with £350,000 from the Scottish Government. This is all part of a larger and ambitious plan to provide a safe shared-use route between Dunbar and Edinburgh.
“This will make it easier, safer and more accessible for people and communities to choose walking, wheeling and cycling between East Lothian and our capital city.
“Over £155 million has been allocated to Active Travel this year, which continues transform communities across Scotland. For our health, wellbeing and climate, we will continue to invest in similar projects to help people choose walking, wheeling and cycling for shorter everyday journeys.”
Walk, wheel and cycle
Emilia Hanna, Head of National Cycle Network at Sustrans Scotland, added: “This project will enable more people to walk, wheel and cycle in East Linton.
“Sustrans is determined to make the National Cycle Network safer and more accessible for everyone, and we are delighted to see work starting to make this on-road section of Route 76, which currently runs along Mill Wynd, traffic-free. Crossing points will also be improved, better connecting residents and visitors to key local facilities."
“Such interventions not only save lives but empower people to make to make healthier and more sustainable choices for their everyday journeys”.