The WHEELS are in motion for a possible cycle path between Clovenfords and Walkerburn.

Its creation combined with other Tweed Valley tracks could create one of the best car free routes in the United Kingdom says a leading cycle route campaigner.

Community Council members and the public heard a presentation from Peeblesshire’s Upper Tweed Railway Paths project leader, Damion Willcock.

“A feasibility study would not be a problem, as this is exactly the sort of plan which major funding bodies want to see, it ticks all the boxes,” said Mr Willcock.

He told members that the £1 million Peebles to Innerleithen multi-use path has attracted more than 50,000 users in its first year and has even hosted a wedding.

“It has been hugely successful, when you think about how much road you get for that money it is not much,” said Mr Willcock.

“It is used by horse riders, cyclists, walker, people on mobility scooters, particularly with family groups.” “A blind boy who lives in Innerleithen can walk it regularly as it is totally safe from traffic.” There is a plan for a path between Innerleithen and Walkerburn and the three landowners have given agreement in principle.

He compared a possible integrated Tweed Valley path to the Camel Trail in Cornwall which is 18 miles long, has 400,000 users and generates £3 million for the local economy.

“Locally for example the shop at Cardrona was about to close for good, then the Innerleithen to Peebles multi-use path came into use and it has given the shop a new lease of life,” said Mr Willcock.

“A similar path here would be a huge draw to tourists, as well as local people,” he said.

Mr Willcock spoke about the plans for a path in the Upper Tweed Valley above Peebles towards Biggar, which has used Lottery money to commission a £30,000 feasibility study and is estimated to cost £450,000 when construction starts.