A new path beside North Berwick Law providing a safer route to school for pupils has opened.
The uneven dirt track connecting Haddington Road to Glenburn Road has been upgraded by East Lothian Council with an asphalt surface.
The project, which was spearheaded by the Law Primary School Parent Council, was completed following extensive engagement and consultation with the community and stakeholder groups.
Connecting the east and west of the town, the path creates a more inclusive and attractive route to Law Primary, the Lochbridge Road Play Area, and North Berwick Sports Centre. It also provides a link between the school and residential areas, supermarkets, the Recreation Park, and the new pump track.
A range of sources provided funding for the Law Path, including Walking Scotland, The North Berwick Trust, the North Berwick Area Partnership, and East Lothian Council.
Welcome addition
A new crossing point on Haddington Road at the entrance to Law Primary has also been completed, and the gate has been adjusted to give more space.
Alan Stubbs, the council’s Service Manager for Roads, said: “I’m pleased that adults and children, whether on foot or on bikes, in wheelchairs or with buggies, now have the option of a safer and accessible route to school which allows them to avoid busy Lochbridge Road.
“Throughout this project, the community engaged with the council to identify the best solution to meet their needs, and we appreciate all the organisations who collaborated with us to make it such a success. In particular, I’d like to express our gratitude to the Law Primary School Parent Council, local tenant farmer Stuart McNicol, and the groups who provided funding.
“I’m sure this path will be a welcome addition for the community for many years to come.”
Real benefits
A spokesperson for the Law Primary School Parent Council said: “The Parent Council are delighted to see the Law Path open, supporting safer journeys to school and helping more families choose to walk, wheel or cycle."
Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer at Walking Scotland, said: "We’re delighted to see the Law Path open, which will allow more families to choose to walk and wheel to school. This route will bring real benefits to the North Berwick community.
“At Walking Scotland, we’re proud to support projects that make everyday journeys safer, healthier and more enjoyable for everyone."
Professor Hamish Wallace, Chair of The North Berwick Trust, said: “We are pleased to support the Law Path with a £30,000 award. This project strongly reflects our commitment to improving active travel, community safety and access to green space in North Berwick. We commend all partners involved for delivering a project that will bring lasting benefits to the community.”