A section of the long-established route connecting Wallyford and historic Fa’side Castle has been successfully upgraded to help serve the growing local community.
A steep, eroded and rutted track was previously used by walkers to reach Elphinstone while passing the castle. Now work on a 1.8m wide path covering the main section of the route between St Clement Well and Fa’side Castle has been completed, making it safer and more pleasant to use.
The improvements have also addressed the severe drainage problems created by the gradient of the former track.
The rough track, which formed an ancient right of way, ran from Fa’side Castle downhill to the farm at St Clements Well before reaching a tarmac path crossing the A1 footbridge to the new housing developments adjacent to Wallyford Bing. The improved path delivered by East Lothian Council has replaced the track on the same route. The lower section from the A1 to Mason Way is due to be upgraded in the coming months.
Funding for the project was provided by developer contributions.
Important addition
Councillor Colin McGinn, the council's Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing and Sport, Countryside and Leisure, said: “This lovely area of East Lothian’s countryside is now more accessible for residents and visitors to enjoy following the construction of this path.
“The village has seen sizeable population growth in recent years due to house building, and enhanced active travel and off-road path networks are needed.
“The recently opened Wallyford Bing Path has already proven an important addition and a path to serve Wallyford Primary School path is also planned.”