Coalfield Access Project
In October 2002, East Ayrshire published and launched an Outdoor Access Strategy and from this, the Coalfield SIP Outdoor Access Project was born.
This was a £2.5 million project for the implementation of 358kms of path network and was one of East Ayrshire Council’s largest externally funded projects.
The Coalfield Access Project and in particular the River Ayr Way contributes to developing healthy and sustainable communities and providing routes which encourage people to walk and cycle instead of using a car. The network itself benefits the people of Ayrshire as it helps to realise the tourism potential of the area and raise awareness and appreciation of much of our rich and varied natural heritage.
The other routes developed through the Coalfield Access Project include:
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The Lugar Water - links Ochiltree and Drongan to the River Ayr as well as providing links around the beautiful Auchinleck Estate.
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The Coalfield Cycle Route - covers a distance of 70km between Dalmellington and Muirkirk and will be signed as part of the Core Path Plan network in 2011/12
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The Doon Valley Network - links the communities of Dalmellington, Patna, Waterside and Rankinston as well as providing links to important sites such as Loch Doon, Craigengillan Estate and the Galloway Forest. An information pack is available detailing the routes in the Doon Valley.
Cultural and Countryside Services
The Palace Theatre
9 Green Street
Kilmarnock
East Ayrshire
KA1 3BN