GCV Green Network
Connecting Our Quality Spaces

Local Authorities have a statutory obligation to identify, map and promote core paths, based on community consultation, within their area. 

The process is most often thought of in relation to the protection, resourcing and enhancement of those paths.  It is less often considered in the context of measurable health improvement for communities who might use those paths.

Making the link between the use of a Core Path Network and health improvement can be difficult. However it may be assumed that increased path usage will result in higher levels of physical activity and therefore a general improvement in health outcomes within a community. 

This assumption formed the basis of this study.

The Green Network

Core Path Planning is an important process in determining local access priorities for the Green Network. Through this research study the Partnership is keen to understand and promote the wider social benefits delivered through the planning and delivery of a path network. 

The study considered two contrasting communities, Hillhead in Kirkintilloch (in the lowest 15% SIMD ranking) and Milngavie (a fairly affluent area) and baseline data gathered on levels of path use, how the paths are used and what sectors of the community used them most. 

The study report, published in May 2008, provides the baseline information against which to assess in future years the impact of Core Path Planning on communities’ travel habits in relation to the local Green Network.

The Way Forward

East Dunbartonshire Council is actively promoting the Core Path Network.  The research study will be repeated in 2011 to determine whether that promotion and the wider Core Path Planning process have had an impact on levels of usage.

The original baseline study was used as supporting documentation in East Dunbartonshire’s successful Smarter Choices, Smarter Places bid to the Scottish Government to promote healthier travel around the Kirkintilloch area.

For more detailed information download the full Core Path Planning and Health Improvement from the right hand column.