Majority Of Scots Keen On More Outdoor Activities With Improved Paths

In a recent survey conducted by YouGov for the social enterprise Slow Ways, it has been revealed that a significant majority of Scots are keen on adopting more active modes of transportation such as walking, running, cycling, and wheeling, provided there are improved pathways in their localities. As Scotland gears up for the bank holiday weekend, the findings come at a time when outdoor activities are highly anticipated. The poll indicates that 73% of adults would prefer these active travel options if better paths were available in their neighborhoods.

The survey was undertaken to support Make Ways, a citizen-led initiative aimed at mapping out the need for new and enhanced paths across Scotland. Dan Raven-Ellison, Chief Exploration Officer at Slow Ways, highlighted the common obstacles that deter people from choosing active travel options. "So many of us would love to walk or wheel places, but we find ourselves blocked by dangerous roads, fences, overgrowth and other barriers," he stated. The project's goal is not only to identify existing paths but also to pinpoint where improvements are needed, thereby fostering a healthier and more connected community.

Interestingly, the research also uncovered that such a comprehensive map could significantly boost the confidence of over half (56%) of Scottish adults in choosing active travel methods. Additionally, about a third of respondents expressed interest in using the map to discover and share optimal routes for walking, running, cycling, or wheeling.

The Make Ways initiative is calling on people from across Scotland to contribute by identifying good paths, problematic routes, and suggesting areas where new paths are crucial. This participatory approach aims to spark both local and national dialogues about enhancing Scotland's path network. By visiting www.makeways.org, residents can play an active role in shaping the future of active travel in their communities.

This initiative underscores a growing desire among Scots to embrace more sustainable and healthy modes of transportation. By addressing the current barriers to active travel and improving infrastructure, Scotland could see a significant shift in how its residents choose to move around. The Make Ways project represents a step towards realizing this vision, with potential benefits for public health, environmental sustainability, and community wellbeing.