Groundbreaking day for safe cycle path linking East Lothian coastal villages

Campaigners celebrate the beginning of construction of the path between Gullane and West Fenton (Photo: Ian Georgeson)

Communities previously without a safe path to cycle on between two East Lothian villages were celebrating on Friday after construction began in earnest on a new cycle route.

The pedestrian and cycle path will link the villages of Gullane and West Fenton after housing giants CALA Homes agreed to fund the construction of a one mile path.

Campaigners, who have been demanded a safe link between Gullane and Drem for 15 years, hope it is the start of a bigger project further down the line.

They added that they would continue to push East Lothian Council to complete the final three miles to Drem to allow adults and children a route away from the busy main road which links the two villages.

Drem-Gullane Path Campaign spokesman, Iain Monk, said the moment was “significant”.

He said: “We are delighted to finally see the diggers moving in to start work on the first section of the path.

“This is a significant milestone for our 15-year campaign, which commands widespread support across the community.

“Pedestrians and cyclists should be able to travel safely between Drem and Gullane, free from the busy and dangerous main road.”

The path also has the support of the famous Edinburgh chef Tom Kitchin.

Mr Kitchin, who also owns the Bonnie Badger in Gullane, said: “We fully support this community path which will safely connect Gullane and Drem and will be a great benefit to the local community.

Kenny MacAskill, the newly elected SNP MP for the area, added that the path will improve health and wellbeing for residents.

He said: “This is great news. Safe, family-friendly active travel options are essential for both commuters and citizens alike.

“This new pathway will be good for the health of local residents and our environment. Campaigners, CALA and local landowners are to be commended for making it happen.”

Alison Johnstone, Green MSP for the Lothian region, said: ““East Lothian Council’s declaration of a climate emergency is very welcome. Consequently, it’s no longer acceptable to suggest that a cycle and footpath isn’t viable and I would be pleased to work with the council and others to find solutions to their concerns.”