Green Network Technical Note Proposed Plan Update October 2016

SESplan 2 – Green Network Technical Note: Proposed Plan Update

Introduction

This technical note briefly sets out the process of engagement undertaken with the SESplan Local Authorities and Key Agencies to inform the preferred approach to green networks and a regional walking and cycling network, set out in the Main Issues Report (MIR) for SDP2 and updated for the Proposed Plan. Whilst green network priorities are set out under the “A Place for Communities” theme and the Regional Walking and Cycling Network under the “A Better Connected Place” theme, the issues are closely linked. The note also provides further details on the objectives identified for the Green Network Priority Areas set out in the MIR and carried forward into the Proposed Plan.

This Updated Technical Note is split into five sections: • Section 1 contains the background information for MIR Issue J: Strategic Green Networks. • Section 2 sets out summary statements for the 15 Green Network Priority Areas set out in the MIR. Much of the work behind the Regional Walking and Cycling Network arose out of work on Strategic Green Network Priorities. • Section 3 sets out the background information and details of the routes shown on the MIR Regional Walking and Cycling Network. • Section 4 sets out how the Green Network Priority areas were refined for the Proposed Plan following the MIR consultation. • Section 5 sets out how the Walking and Cycling Proposed Plan content was refined following the MIR consultation. It sets out definitions used for strategic routes and associated criteria used to identify whether routes should be included in the Proposed Plan.

1.0 Strategic Green Networks

For ease of reference, the preferred MIR option is repeated here:

Preferred Option - Strategic Green Networks SDP2 will identify spatial priority areas for green network safeguarding, enhancement and creation and key areas of cross-boundary working identified at the regional level. LDPs will be required to reflect the green network priorities identified, add detail as appropriate on local level green network priorities and work toward delivery through LDP action programmes.

1.1 What are Green Networks?

Green networks in the SESplan area are: connected areas of green and blue spaces within and around our towns and cities, linking out into the wider countryside, which underpin the region’s quality of life and sense of place and provides the setting within which high quality, sustainable growth can occur. - taken from SESplan SDP1 Green Network Technical Note 2011

The SESplan area has a diverse range of existing green networks which help define the character of the region, while maintaining the distinctiveness of individual places and promoting quality of life for people who live in, work in or visit the area.

National Planning Framework 3 (NPF3) and Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) set out a strong policy context for green infrastructure in city regions, emphasising the scope to deliver multiple benefits, and improved quality of life, sustainability and resilience within our city regions. NPF3 also confirms the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) as a national development, which covers all of the SESplan area except Scottish Borders.

1.3 Feedback on SESplan SDP1 and Learning from LDP Approaches

As a relatively new concept in SDP1 (Approved June 2013), feedback was sought on the green network content, to help inform the preferred approach in SDP2. To inform the preferred approach set out in the MIR, early engagement was undertaken with the SESplan Local Authorities and Key Agencies. This was to learn from experiences of using SDP1 and to discuss and identify the priorities and actions for progressing SDP2.

As a basis for the assessment of the effectiveness of the green network proposals in SDP1, an online survey of member local authorities and key agencies was undertaken alongside holding two workshops to review and discuss the approach for SDP2. Feedback from member authorities and key agencies on the approach to green networks in SESplan SDP1 suggested it had generally offered a good starting point, but experience in preparing the green network content in LDPs had demonstrated that there were some areas for improvement that could be identified. Key points were:

- The mapping in the SDP1 Green Network Technical Note was considered to show too much background information, much of which was thought to be more appropriate for consideration at the LDP level; - Spatial priorities for green network enhancement within the region were not clear enough and that green network issues and opportunities in cross-boundary areas between Member Authorities were not set out in enough detail; - A need for more specific detail on the location and nature of the opportunities for green network development; and - A need for more information on action planning and delivery.

Views on SDP1 were explored further in a May 2014 workshop with Local Authority and Key Agency colleagues, where approaches at the LDP level were explored in further detail. The workshop discussions identified the benefits of setting out key aims underpinning the Green Network opportunities, as well as suggesting the following likely areas of useful focus for SDP2:

• Identify spatial priorities for green network safeguarding and enhancement, underpinned (and informed) by green network themes; • Co-ordinate action in cross-boundary areas to facilitate planning and delivery between neighbouring authorities; • Co-ordinate action to help set direction in areas of strategic growth, including across local authority boundaries where necessary.

1.4 The Preferred Approach in SESplan 2

This early engagement helped to identify where SDP2 could add value to the work already undertaken in SESplan 1. The main areas proposed are set out below:

• Identify the key themes and multiple benefits that the SESplan green network is seeking to deliver; • Identify key strategic areas where green network safeguarding and enhancement is needed (while recognizing that LDPs need to show the detail and required actions); • Identify cross-council boundary areas where collaboration and co-ordination is needed to ensure planning and delivery of strategic green networks; and • Identify to an appropriate level of detail the green network assets and the strategic green network needs in areas of significant growth and change.

These areas of work were considered to align well with the priorities set out in NPF3 and SPP, reflecting the emphasis on ‘placemaking’ and sustainable growth that maintains distinctiveness and promotes quality of life.

The preferred approach in the MIR sought to ensure that strategic green network connectivity is maximised and that multiple benefits are delivered. This will require the successful integration of different green network functions within an efficient use of land. In strategic development areas, the preferred approach is to identify the key strategic green network requirements, while setting a vision for local green network development as an integral element of the ‘placemaking’ principles established for these areas. While the SDP will illustrate the strategic connections and principles for green network development it is intended that the LDPs will set out the more detailed plans and proposals for sites within the areas of strategic development, as well as identifying more local-level green network priorities, as appropriate.

1.5 Identifying Spatial Priorities for Green Network Development at the SESplan Level

During the Summer and Autumn of 2014 discussions continued with member authority colleagues to refine the green network themes and begin to identify the areas of greatest strategic importance for green network development. These were defined as spatial priorities for green network development at the SESplan level and included areas where cross-boundary working between local authorities is required. Across the six local authorities a total of 32 suggestions were received.

Initial consideration of the suggested priorities and areas of cross-boundary working was undertaken by SESplan, supported by staff from SNH and Lothians and Fife Green Network Partnership (LFGNP). This looked to: 1. consider where suggestions aligned with one another and could be merged; 2. consider where suggestions covered more than one geographic area and would benefit from being split into more than one area; and 3. identify where suggestions related more strongly to existing environmental assets that are protected under other planning tools.

This analysis identified 20 suggested areas.. In October 2014, a further workshop discussion was held with Member Authority and Key Agency colleagues, to consider the areas proposed and to identify if any areas were missing from the list. For five proposals, which strongly related to active travel routes, the decision was taken to incorporate these proposals into SESplan’s work on a regional walking and cycling network (Section 3). This resulted in 15 initial suggested priority areas and areas of cross-boundary working at the SESplan level, shown in the diagram below. Section 2 below, provides further detail on the 15 proposals identified.

Figure 1: Regional Green Network Priority Areas

1.6 Green Network Themes

Discussions with Member Authorities and other stakeholders identified the benefits of a strong thematic underpinning for the green networks in order to help communicate their aims and multiple benefits. Development of the themes was seen to offer a useful means of more simply communicating the priorities in areas of change with the nine proposed SESplan specific themes building on the relevant content of SPP and NPF3. The nine themes are set out in the table below.

Improving quality of place providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to existing and proposed communities Attracting inward investment supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving the attractiveness of £££ existing ones

Enabling climate change adaptation helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme weather events

Providing for higher levels of active travel developing the walking and cycling network Facilitating people to lead healthier lives enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing

Enabling bio-diversity to flourish creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife Strengthening landscape character improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, including those designated as Special Landscape Areas

Improving vacant and derelict land enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for vacant and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged communities Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and health benefits

2.0 Priority Areas of Cross-Boundary Working at the SESplan Level

The following pages provide short summary statements on the 15 green network priority areas identified through discussions to-date, including the objectives identified across the nine green network themes (identified in section 1.5). These statements are intended to provide an indication of the extent of the area, the key issues within each area and relative levels of regional importance based on factors and contribution towards green network themes. A large tick indicates a potential significant contribution, a smaller tick a smaller contribution and with no tick indicating an absence of a contribution towards green network themes in that area.

It is intended that the areas identified will be updated as necessary to take on board comments made in relation to the MIR and reflect the preferred approach to spatial growth identified.

In preparing the Proposed Plan of SDP2, SESplan will revise the summary statements and supporting diagrammatic plan based on the consultation responses. These will set out the key issues and opportunities for green network development in each of the priority areas. This is intended to set strategic direction for improvement of the green network in each location and to inform the approach taken for LDP preparation.

Please note that the areas shown in the diagrams are broadly indicative and for contextual purposes only. They do not represent fixed boundaries of priority areas. Further work will be needed to define the geographic scope and the relevant issues pertinent to the individual priority areas.

Area/Project 1. Dunfermline Development Area Background • Area focussed on west and north Dunfermline • Incorporates Townhill Country Park Context: • Allocations include land for 7,200 new houses • Adjoins Dunfermline Green Belt to the west, and includes • Area includes proposals for a northern link road and western distributor road landscape assets of Broomhall Estate Area of significant change, with a number of new and proposed Improving quality of place developments. Establishing and maintaining a sense of place will be providing attractive and well integrated green networks close highly important moving forward and co-ordination of green network to existing and proposed communities planning can help.

Attracting inward investment North and west Dunfermline form key gateways, green network supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving development will be important in shaping impressions of the wider town. £££ the attractiveness of existing ones Enabling climate change adaptation Includes Baldridge/Tower Burn and Brankholm Burn. Water helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme management a key issue for new developments and green network weather events enhancements. Existing core path and active travel route network. High quality active travel links through development and to the town centre needed, Providing for higher levels of active travel alongside access to Townhill Country Park, wider developing the walking and cycling network countryside/settlements. Ensure northern link road and western distributor function as streets, with well-designed crossing points.

Facilitating people to lead healthier lives This is a key issue to be addressed within the design of new areas of enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing housing. spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing Area currently has relatively poor levels of habitat connectivity; this Enabling bio-diversity to flourish could be improved, with opportunities to deliver wider off-site habitat

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife networks connections.

Landscape character is well defined in places, including landscape features of Broomhall Estate. Landscape to the west has a strong Strengthening landscape character sense of containment and high scenic quality, providing a positive improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, setting for the town. Further study and a sensitive design led approach including those designated as Special Landscape Areas to GN development are required. Strengthening landscape character in the north is also a priority. Improving vacant and derelict land enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for There are no substantial VDL sites in this area. vacant and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged communities A few areas of Dunfermline are included in the 20% most deprived Addressing open space inequalities and maximising areas in Scotland (SIMD 2012) but deprivation is not a significant issue. community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within Fife. Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with land use change; delivery may be more Deliverability complicated due to different land

allocations – important that delivery is Is the proposal something that co-ordinated across site boundaries could be cheap and easily at an early stage. delivered or will it be expensive and require lots of co-ordination?

Green network delivery is often, but Timescale not solely, dependant on development and the overall context for delivery is Is the timescale for delivery clear complex. or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a moderate-sized area, on the CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN edge of Dunfermline, with a high level of land use change proposed. Scale and importance of context Forming a key gateway from the north and west, the area is an important Given all of the above criteria is the Clear agenda for green network Is this proposal important for the landscape priority. relative importance of this proposal to development in this area, immediate locale, for the wider SES PLAN particularly as the town grows west area or for the region? and northwards VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? HIGH

Area/Project 2. Ore Valley area and Settlements Background • Area focussed on the Ore Valley Strategic Development Area, • Vacant and derelict land and areas in need of regeneration remain Context: incorporating proposals in the settlements of Lochgelly, Kelty, Ballingry • Incorporates Lochore Meadows Country Park and adjoins the Lomond and Lochore, for approximately 5,500 new houses Hills Regional Park • Former coal mining area, including the former Westfield open cast site SES PLAN Green Network Themes Objectives and Priorities Significant amount of development proposed across a number of Improving quality of place settlements, centred on the Ore Valley and Lochore Meadows. providing attractive and well integrated green networks close Improving quality of place and wider environmental quality, whilst to existing and proposed communities maintaining a sense of place are highly important moving forward. Provides the landscape setting for and gateway to surrounding Attracting inward investment settlements, shaping wider impressions of the area, including as a place supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving the attractiveness of existing ones to invest. Potential growing tourism role, which includes the route of the proposed Pilgrim’s Way. Enabling climate change adaptation Includes River Ore and Lochty Burn. Water management is a key issue helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme for new developments and green network enhancements. weather events Existing core path and active travel route network. Area includes part of proposed Pilgrim Way route. Opportunities for further development of a Providing for higher levels of active travel major multi-user route between settlements within the Ore Valley and developing the walking and cycling network improved gateways and active travel links to Country Park have been identified. Existing open space quality below average. Ease/quality of access to Facilitating people to lead healthier lives wider assets, including the Country Park variable. This is a key issue to enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing address in existing areas, as well as in the creation of new areas of spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing housing. Environmental quality is variable. Water body restoration opportunities Enabling bio-diversity to flourish have been identified in the area, with potential to deliver habitat creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife connections and wider landscape improvements alongside. Strengthening landscape character Past land uses have led to a fragmented landscape character and

improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, variable landscape quality; strengthening landscape character and improving landscape quality are very high priorities. including those designated as Special Landscape Areas Improving vacant and derelict land Enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for VDL enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for remain strong ambitions; regeneration of sites could deliver green vacant and derelict land (VDL) network enhancements. Delivering action in disadvantaged communities There are high levels of disadvantage in a number of settlements Addressing open space inequalities and maximising bounding the Ore Valley area. community and health benefits

Other Influencing Notes Plan of Area Factors Cross boundary influence Area is entirely within Fife, but adjoins the Perth and Kinross Does the proposal have boundary. influence or connectivity between Local Authorities? Whilst some delivery will be dependent on land-use change, Deliverability overall context for delivery is complex given size of area. Wider Is the proposal something projects will also be dependent on that could be cheap and landowner agreement and available easily delivered or will it be funding. Nevertheless to deliver the expensive and require lots scale of change desired it is of co-ordination? important that delivery is co- ordinated from an early stage and set within a wider vision for the area. Timescale Delivery is likely to be complex, through a range of mechanisms, and Is the timescale for delivery over a range of timescales. clear or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term? This is a significant-sized area, CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN which forms the landscape setting for a number of settlements, as well Scale and importance of as defining a key interface between Clear agenda for green network context Fife and Perth and Kinross. Its scale Given all of the above criteria is the development in this area, particularly as a and variable environmental quality relative importance of this proposal to key means of improving environmental Is this proposal important for make it an important landscape SES PLAN quality and delivering regeneration the immediate locale, for the priority. wider area or for the region? ambitions VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or

LOW? HIGH

Area/Project 3. Kirkcaldy Development Areas Background • Area focussed on growth areas to the east and south-west (SW) of Kirkcaldy • Kirkcaldy SW adjoins a Local Landscape Area, and is close to Context: • Allocations include land for around 3,850 new houses designed landscapes at Raith Estate Improving quality of place Area of significant change. Establishing new green networks and

providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to maintaining a sense of place will be highly important moving existing and proposed communities forward. Attracting inward investment Kirkcaldy SW and Kirkcaldy East form key gateways to the town; supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving development will shape impressions of the wider town. the attractiveness of existing ones Kingslaw Burn passes through Kirkcaldy East, and Tiel Burn to the Enabling climate change adaptation east of Kirkcaldy SW. Water management a key issue for new helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme developments and should integrate with green network weather events enhancements. Existing core path and active travel route network. High quality links through development, towards the town, coast, and wider Providing for higher levels of active travel countryside needed, and neighbouring communities and from developing the walking and cycling network Kirkcaldy SW to Beveridge Park and Balwearie High School. Wider countryside links are still to be developed. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives This is a key issue to be addressed within the design of new areas enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing of housing. spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing Kirkcaldy SW has good habitat assets, with potential for habitat connectivity to high quality assets including Raith Estate’s ancient Enabling bio-diversity to flourish woodland and riparian habitat along watercourses. Kirkcaldy East creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife has potential to contribute to the wider habitat network, including the Wemyss Estate woodlands. Kirkcaldy SW is an existing high quality landscape, with strong Strengthening landscape character assets, high scenic value, providing a positive setting for the town; improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, sensitive approach required. Strengthening landscape character including those designated as Special Landscape Areas and quality in Kirkcaldy East is a priority. Improving vacant and derelict land In Kirkcaldy East, the Kingslaw site has recently been open cast enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for mined and reclaimed. There are no other VDL sites in the area. vacant and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged communities The SIMD data for Kirkcaldy East highlights that development is in

Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community close proximity to areas of higher disadvantage. and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within Fife. Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with land use change. Proposals are at an Deliverability advanced stage, having been carried

forward from the Fife Structure Plan Is the proposal something that and SDP1. could be cheap and easily delivered or will it be expensive and require lots of co-ordination?

Green network delivery is dependent Timescale on development timescales. Wider linkages may be more complex to Is the timescale for delivery clear deliver. or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

The area is composed of two CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN moderate-sized areas, on the edge of Kirkcaldy, with a high level of land use Scale and importance of context change proposed. Forming a key Given all of the above criteria is the Clear agenda for green network gateway from the south-west and Is this proposal important for the relative importance of this proposal to development in this area, east, the area is an important immediate locale, for the wider SES PLAN particularly as the town grows landscape priority. area or for the region? south westwards and east VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? MEDIUM

Area/Project 4. Levenmouth, including the River Leven and Coast Background • Area focussed on Leven, Methil, Methilhill and Buckhaven, which • Allocations include land for around 1,650 new houses Context: have coalesced • Major employment areas at Fife Energy Park and Diageo and proposals • Includes significant areas of vacant and derelict land for low carbon business park at Buckhaven Area includes significant open space, coastal and riparian assets. Improving quality of place Improving quality of existing assets, successfully integrating and providing attractive and well integrated green networks close connecting to local communities and enhancing environmental quality, to existing and proposed communities whilst maintaining a sense of place are highly important. Includes major employment areas at Diageo and Fife Energy Park. Attracting inward investment Levenmouth is also recognised as the gateway to the East Neuk. supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving Green network enhancement will improve attractiveness and help the attractiveness of existing ones shape wider impressions of the area, including as a place to invest. Enabling climate change adaptation Includes River Leven, Kennoway Burn and the Scoonie Burn and the

helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme waterfront and coastal flood plain. Water management is a key issue weather events for new developments and green network enhancements. Existing walking and cycling network. Area includes part of proposed Providing for higher levels of active travel Pilgrim Way route and NCN76 extension. Further development

between settlements, to provide round routes, improved access along developing the walking and cycling network the River Leven, connections to town centre and coast needed. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives Improving the quality of existing assets and enhancing access, will

enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing encourage greater use of the green network – delivering improved spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing levels of walking, cycling, recreation and enjoyment of the outdoors. Intertidal area of significant habitat value (SPA, RAMSAR, SSSI Enabling bio-diversity to flourish designations); likely potential to enhance, along with coastal

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife grasslands and wider riparian habitat network. Improving habitat management also a priority. Existing landscape character is well defined in places, but past land Strengthening landscape character uses have led to a fragmented character and variable landscape improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, quality elsewhere; strengthening character, improving quality and including those designated as Special Landscape Areas enhancing landscape setting of settlements are very high priorities. Improving vacant and derelict land Area has a strong coal mining heritage; areas in need of regeneration

enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for remain, including significant areas of VDL. Enhancing environmental vacant and derelict land (VDL) quality and enabling new uses for VDL remain strong ambitions. Delivering action in disadvantaged SIMD data highlights that disadvantage is higher and in some areas communities there are significant levels of disadvantage. This is a key issue to Addressing open space inequalities and maximising address. community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within Fife. Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Whilst some delivery will be dependent on land-use change, Deliverability overall context for delivery is complex.

Wider projects will be dependent on Is the proposal something that available funding and landowner could be cheap and easily agreement. Important that delivery is delivered or will it be expensive co-ordinated from an early stage and and require lots of co-ordination? set within a wider vision for the area.

The overall context for delivery is complex. Some green network Timescale delivery is dependent on

development. Other enhancements Is the timescale for delivery clear will be through a range of or uncertain? mechanisms, and over a range of Is the proposal something that timescales. would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a moderate-sized area, with a CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN high level of land use change Scale and importance of context proposed. The area’s scale and variable environmental quality make it Given all of the above criteria is the Clear agenda for green network Is this proposal important for the an important priority. relative importance of this proposal to enhancement and development in immediate locale, for the wider SES PLAN this area, particularly as the town area or for the region? and business investment grows VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? HIGH

Area/Project: 5. Linlithgow Area, including Union Canal, River Avon and links to Whitecross (Falkirk LDP Area) Background • Preferred housing allocations to the east and south of Linlithgow were included in West • Includes Union Canal, Linlithgow Loch, River Avon, Context: Lothian’s LDP1 MIR, with possible potential for up to 600 houses and River Avon Heritage Trail and nearby Beecraigs • Potential 200-acre mixed use development, including 1800 new houses being considered and Muiravonside (located within Falkirk Council by Falkirk Council at Whitecross, which lies to the west of Linlithgow and the River Avon area) Country Parks Sensitive area, with a number of potential new developments. Successfully Improving quality of place integrating new development in a way which maintains and enhances the providing attractive and well integrated green networks sense of place will be highly important moving forward. Ambitions exist to close to existing and proposed communities establish a Bathgate Hills Heritage Landscape Partnership. No new business areas are planned, however there is a need to support Attracting inward investment supporting the delivery of new business areas and local employment opportunities within the town and ensure existing quality improving the attractiveness of existing ones of place is maintained. Water management a key issue for all new developments and green Enabling climate change adaptation helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and network enhancements. Improving the water quality of Linlithgow Loch extreme weather events SSSI is a priority. Includes existing active travel network, including the Union Canal and Providing for higher levels of active River Avon Heritage Trail. Considering links to Falkirk/Bo’ness, travel connections to the River Avon and wider recreational access to Bathgate developing the walking and cycling network Hills are priorities. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives enabling people to increase their activity levels by This is a key issue to be addressed within the design of new areas of providing spaces for sport, recreation, play or community housing. growing Area currently has relatively high levels of habitat connectivity – with the

Enabling bio-diversity to flourish potential to further enhance through green network delivery. creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife

Area bounds the Bathgate Hills and Avon valley candidate Special

Strengthening landscape character Landscape Areas, reflecting the sensitivity and quality of Linlithgow’s improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, existing landscape setting – the green network should reinforce the including those designated as Special Landscape Areas existing character and quality.

Improving vacant and derelict land There are no substantial VDL sites in this area other than around enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses Whitecross former brickworks (Falkirk LDP area). for vacant and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged SIMD data for this area does not highlight significant issues of communities Addressing open space inequalities and maximising disadvantage. community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within West Lothian, but encompasses important Cross boundary influence cross-boundary links to Whitecross

and Falkirk. Scottish Canals Does the proposal have influence continuing proposals to upgrade the or connectivity between Local canal tow path and their emerging Authorities? Environmental Strategy for the canal

are important.

Delivery associated with land use change and the emerging Deliverability development strategy for Linlithgow; it

is important that delivery is co- Is the proposal something that ordinated across site boundaries at could be cheap and easily an early stage. delivered or will it be expensive and require lots of co-ordination?

Green network delivery is likely to be dependent on development. Timescale

Is the timescale for delivery clear or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a sensitive area, on the edge CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN of Linlithgow, with a relatively Scale and importance of context moderate level of land use change Given all of the above criteria is the Strong green network agenda in proposed. Given the sensitive nature Is this proposal important for the relative importance of this proposal to this area, if Linlithgow is to grow of the area, and its gateway location, immediate locale, for the wider SES PLAN and particularly if new development the area forms an important priority. area or for the region? is also to take place in Whitecross VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? MEDIUM

Area/Project: 6. Whitburn to Fauldhouse and settlements east along the Breich Water Background • Includes the Heartlands development area in west Whitburn, on the • Small-scale housing allocations in other settlements Context: former Polkemmet colliery; proposals include allocations for 2,000 new • Formal coal mining area, vacant and derelict land and houses and associated employment land adjacent to the M8 areas in need of regeneration remain SES PLAN Green Network Themes Objectives and Priorities Significant amount of development proposed in Whitburn; smaller

Improving quality of place scale allocations at other settlements. Improving quality of place and providing attractive and well integrated green networks close wider environmental quality, whilst maintaining a sense of place are to existing and proposed communities highly important moving forward.

Attracting inward investment Provides landscape setting for a number of settlements, shaping wider supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving impressions of the area, including as a place to invest. the attractiveness of existing ones Includes the Breich Water and River Almond and tributaries. Water Enabling climate change adaptation helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme management is a key issue for new developments and green network weather events enhancements. Includes existing walking and cycling routes. Further development of multi-user routes between settlements, improved gateways and quality Providing for higher levels of active travel developing the walking and cycling network links from settlements to Polkemmet Country Park, NCN 75, and rail stations needed. Explore scope for a Breich Water Trail. Ease/quality of access to wider countryside and recreational assets, Facilitating people to lead healthier lives enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing including the Country Park variable. Also issue of wider environmental spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing quality – key issues to address in existing and new communities. Habitat quality variable – area includes carbon rich soils and mature forestry plantation. Opportunities for habitat enhancement should be Enabling bio-diversity to flourish creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife explored, particularly bog habitat restoration and riparian habitat

improvements, alongside wider landscape/recreation enhancements. Past land uses have led to a fragmented landscape character and Strengthening landscape character improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, variable landscape quality; strengthening landscape character and including those designated as Special Landscape Areas improving landscape quality are very high priorities. Development at Heartlands has involved restoring and regenerating

Improving vacant and derelict land the former Polkemmet colliery site, a significant area of vacant and enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for derelict land. Enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses vacant and derelict land (VDL) for other areas of VDL remain strong ambitions. Delivering action in disadvantaged communities There are high levels of disadvantage in a number of settlements in this area. Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within West Cross boundary influence Lothian but adjoins North Lanarkshire.

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Whilst some delivery will be dependent on land-use change, Deliverability overall context for delivery is likely to be complex. Wider projects will be Is the proposal something that dependent on landowner agreement could be cheap and easily and available funding. Nevertheless delivered or will it be expensive to deliver the scale of change desired and require lots of co-ordination? it is important that delivery is co- ordinated from an early stage and set within a wider vision for the area.

Timescale Delivery is likely to be complex, through a range of mechanisms Is the timescale for delivery clear (especially through CSGNT) and over or uncertain? a range of timescales. Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term? The area’s variable environmental CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN and place quality make it an important Scale and importance of context priority. The lowland crofting policy is Clear agenda for green network being reviewed via the LDP MIR Given all of the above criteria is the development in this area, Is this proposal important for the process. The majority of the existing relative importance of this proposal to particularly as a key means of immediate locale, for the wider 13 crofting sites are located within this SES PLAN improving predominantly poor area or for the region? area and potential green network environmental quality and connections between these “island” VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or delivering regeneration ambitions sites are also being surveyed. LOW? MEDIUM

Area/Project: 7a. Broxburn Area and surrounds including Uphall, Winchburgh and A8 corridor west of Newbridge Background • Centres on East Broxburn Core Development Area (CDA), with allocations for • Includes Scheduled Ancient Monuments of Greendykes and Context: approx. 2,000 new houses; and includes Winchburgh CDA with allocations for Faucheldean Bings, and the Union Canal. Niddry Bing is approx. 3,450 and smaller allocations in surrounding settlements currently being worked SES PLAN Green Network Themes Objectives and Priorities Area of significant change, with a number of new and proposed Improving quality of place providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to major developments. Establishing and maintaining a sense of place existing and proposed communities will be highly important moving forward. Makes an important contribution to the gateway and interface Attracting inward investment supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving between West Lothian and the city, development will be important in the attractiveness of existing ones shaping impressions of West Lothian and the wider city region Includes the Brox and Niddry Burns and tributaries. Water Enabling climate change adaptation helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme management a key issue for new developments and green network weather events enhancements. Scope to alleviate flood risk should be considered.

Existing walking and cycling route network includes Union Canal, and east-west cycle route along the A89/A8. Gaps to address. High Providing for higher levels of active travel developing the walking and cycling network quality walking and cycling routes through development and to the town centre needed, alongside links between settlements. This is a key issue to address within the design of new areas of

Facilitating people to lead healthier lives housing. Opportunities to better link assets and enhance recreational enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing value of Faucheldean and Greendykes Bings, as part of a connected spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing and multi-functional green network should be further explored. Industrial legacy and intensive agriculture have fragmented habitat connectivity and quality in places, but a good framework remains, Enabling bio-diversity to flourish creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife which could be enhanced. The scheduled bings are of important habitat value, with likely potential to develop and enhance. Landscape character well defined in places, including features of Newliston designed landscape, and River Almond. Past land uses

Strengthening landscape character have fragmented character and quality elsewhere. Faucheldean and improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, Greendykes Bings are significant features, Working with assets to including those designated as Special Landscape Areas strengthen character, create positive setting and establish a high quality edge and interface with Edinburgh are priorities. Enhancing place quality and enabling new uses remain ambitions. Improving vacant and derelict land enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for Regeneration could deliver green network enhancements and vacant and derelict land (VDL) contribute to the Greendykes Heritage Park proposal in adopted LP. Delivering action in disadvantaged SIMD data for the area indicates that deprivation levels have communities improved over recent years, but pockets of poor health and Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community educational attainment remain in some communities. and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within West Lothian, but forms a key interface with Cross boundary influence Edinburgh – cross-boundary

connectivity is a key consideration. Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with land use Deliverability change; delivery may be more complicated due to different land Is the proposal something that allocations – important that delivery is could be cheap and easily co-ordinated between CDAs and delivered or will it be expensive across site boundaries at an early and require lots of co-ordination? stage, and forms part of a wider vision for the area. Green network delivery in some areas Timescale will be dependent on development and the overall context for delivery is Is the timescale for delivery clear complex. Any wider projects identified or uncertain? would be dependent on landowner Is the proposal something that agreement and available funding. would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a moderate-sized area, with a CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN relatively high level of land use Scale and importance of context Clear agenda for green network change proposed. Forming a key Given all of the above criteria is the development in this area, gateway and interface with relative importance of this proposal to Is this proposal important for the particularly given the gateway Edinburgh, the area is an important SES PLAN immediate locale, for the wider location and extent of CDA landscape priority. area or for the region? proposal VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or

LOW? HIGH

Area/Project 7b. West Edinburgh to Newbridge, including the A8 corridor east of Newbridge Background • Area focussed on A8 corridor – city edge to Newbridge • Multiple strategies already apply in this area including the West Context: • Allocations include new housing and International Business Gateway Edinburgh Landscape Framework • Includes tram route, Gogar station, RBS HQ and Edinburgh airport • Almond, Cammo Park and Gogar designed landscape are assets Improving quality of place Area of substantial change, with a number of new and proposed

providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to developments. Establishing and maintaining a sense of place will existing and proposed communities be highly important moving forward. Attracting inward investment Proposed IBG is intended to have a high quality landscape

supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving the framework. Recognised that the A8 corridor is a key gateway to attractiveness of existing ones the city including for international visitors. Enabling climate change adaptation River Almond and Gogar Burn prone to flooding. Water

helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme weather management a key issue for all new developments and green events network enhancements. A8 corridor has a very important role to play in facilitating better Providing for higher levels of active travel east-west links that connect proposed business uses and existing

and proposed settlements in west of City of Edinburgh area and developing the walking and cycling network east of West Lothian to the city. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives The lack of existing communities results in this issue being more

enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing spaces relevant for the creation of new areas of housing and business for sport, recreation, play or community growing use. Area currently has relatively poor levels of habitat connectivity; this Enabling bio-diversity to flourish could be improved. There are significant restrictions on woodland

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife planting and free standing water habitats due to proximity to the airport. Need to improve Almond and Gogar Burn water quality. Existing landscape character is well defined in places, in part due Strengthening landscape character to mature policy woodland cover at Gogar. Piecemeal landscaping

improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, including schemes and strong influence of transport infrastructure has led to those designated as Special Landscape Areas fragmentation of land uses; strengthening landscape character is a high priority. Improving vacant and derelict land enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for vacant There are no substantial VDL sites in this area. and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged communities SIMD data for this area does not highlight significant issues of Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and disadvantage. There are however high levels of disadvantage in health benefits areas neighbouring this area.

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is cross-boundary between City of Edinburgh and West Lothian. Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Improvements to the strategic green Deliverability network may be complicated but the (planned; opportunity; or conjoined size and location of ambition) proposed allocations should allow Is the proposal something that early delivery in certain locations. could be cheap and easily Important connections between delivered or will it be expensive development areas may need to be and require lots of co-ordination? delivered through co-ordinated effort.

Different projects identified within this Timescale area will take different timescales to deliver. Green network delivery is Is the timescale for delivery clear often dependent on development and or uncertain? the overall context for delivery is Is the proposal something that complex. would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a moderately sized area that is CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN strategically located on the busy western side of the city. The area acts Scale and importance of context as a key gateway to the city and fulfils an important transition between the Given all of the above criteria is the Clear agenda for green network relative importance of this proposal to development in this area, Is this proposal important for the city and its surrounding landscape and communities. SES PLAN: particularly as the city grows immediate locale, for the wider westwards. area or for the region? VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? VERY HIGH

Area/Project: 8. East Calder area, including the A71 corridor east to Edinburgh Background • Area focussed on A71 corridor – Livingston to the city edge • Includes River Almond, Union Canal, Water of Leith, Linhouse Water, Almondell and Context: • Includes Calderwood, in East Calder, with allocations for up Calderwood Country Park as existing assets to 3,000 new houses • Adjoins and incorporates Edinburgh Green Belt in the east, and includes landscape assets of Dalmahoy designed landscape Improving quality of place Sensitive area, with some new development. Successfully integrating

providing attractive and well integrated green networks close new development in a way which maintains and enhances the existing to existing and proposed communities quality and sense of place is of key importance. Attracting inward investment Provides the landscape setting for and gateway to surrounding supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving settlements (especially Livingston) and a key interface between West the attractiveness of existing ones Lothian and Edinburgh, shaping impressions of the wider Calders area. Enabling climate change adaptation Include the River Almond and tributaries. Water management a key helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme issue for all new developments and green network enhancements. weather events Existing core path and active travel route network. Delivering improved Providing for higher levels of active travel active travel provision along the A71 linking settlements and connecting

to Edinburgh is a key strategic aim. Potential for River Almond Trail developing the walking and cycling network (see 11b). Facilitating people to lead healthier lives This is a key issue to be addressed particularly within the design of new enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing areas of housing. spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing Area currently has relatively high levels of habitat connectivity, which includes ancient woodland along the incised River Almond and Enabling bio-diversity to flourish Linhouse corridor; improvements might include removal of barriers to creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife improve fish passage along the Almond and well-designed planting

which also reinforces landscape character. Landscape character well defined, strong sense of containment, high scenic quality, provides positive setting for settlements; sensitive Strengthening landscape character approach required to maintain quality and settlement identity. Includes improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, Almondell Country Park, River Almond/Linhouse (a candidate Special including those designated as Special Landscape Areas Landscape Area), Pentlands fringes and Dalmahoy designed landscape. Improving vacant and derelict land There are no substantial VDL sites in this area other than centred on enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for former quarry of Camps Industrial Estate and abandoned tip north of vacant and derelict land (VDL) Kirknewton. Delivering action in disadvantaged SIMD data for this area does not highlight significant issues of communities disadvantage. However it abuts an area of disadvantage in inside the Addressing open space inequalities and maximising A720 in south west Edinburgh. community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is cross boundary between Cross boundary influence West Lothian and City of Edinburgh.

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Whilst some delivery will be Deliverability dependent on land-use change, the overall context for delivery of wider Is the proposal something that enhancements is likely to be could be cheap and easily dependent on landowner agreement, delivered or will it be expensive and available funding mechanisms. and require lots of co-ordination?

Delivery is likely to be complex, through a range of mechanisms, and over a range of timescales. Timescale

Is the timescale for delivery clear or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a moderately sized area which CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN forms an important interface on the Scale and importance of context edge of the city, with some planned Important agenda for green Given all of the above criteria is the development. A sensitive approach is network development to maintain relative importance of this proposal to Is this proposal important for the required to maintain overall landscape landscape quality and settlement SES PLAN immediate locale, for the wider quality and individual settlement identity, and to improve access and

area or for the region? identity. recreation VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or

LOW? MEDIUM

Area/Project: 9. Penicuik to Fairmilehead, including Bilston, Loanhead/Straiton, Burdiehouse, Hillend and the Pentland Hills fringes Background • Area focussed on A701 corridor – Penicuik to the city edge, including for an A701 relief road south of the bypass Context: A720; area important to setting, views, key gateways • Pentlands Hills and fringes contribute significantly to wider landscape • Includes planned and proposed allocations north and south of setting and are important recreational areas. Other important assets north bypass and potential mixed use associated with long-term proposals of the bypass include the Braid Hills and Blackford Hill Area of significant change, with a number of proposed developments Improving quality of place including Straiton expansion. A co-ordinated approach which establishes and providing attractive and well integrated green networks close maintains landscape setting and a sense of place, while improving cross- to existing and proposed communities boundary connections will be important. The existing assets provide a high quality environmental setting and Attracting inward investment recreational backdrop for settlements and business sites within Midlothian supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving and Edinburgh, shaping wider impressions of the area, including as a place to the attractiveness of existing ones invest. Enabling climate change adaptation Includes the Lothian, Swanston, Pentland and Burdiehouse Burns. Some

helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme parts in channel. Water management is a key issue for new developments weather events and green network enhancements. Key priorities are the enhancement of active travel links under/across the Providing for higher levels of active travel bypass as well as delivering improved connectivity of leisure-based routes to developing the walking and cycling network the Pentlands. Others include east-west connections and links to Roslin and Bonnyrigg. An important priority in existing communities and new development. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives Enhancing access and improving wider connectivity will encourage greater enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing use of the green network – delivering improved levels of walking, cycling, spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing recreation and enjoyment of the outdoors. Fragmented habitat of variable quality. In particular, opportunities to improve Enabling bio-diversity to flourish connectivity of woodland and riparian habitats should be explored. Habitat

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife improvements in the Pentland fringe could also deliver landscape/recreational enhancements and should be explored. Maintaining landscape setting and strengthening landscape character are a Strengthening landscape character priority in this key gateway/interface area. Co-ordinating development and

improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, ensuring connected landscape frameworks north and south of the city bypass including those designated as Special Landscape Areas will be important, as will ensuring appropriate integration of the A701 realignment and any associated development. Improving vacant and derelict land Area includes former mineral/landfill operations (e.g. Straiton Bing and enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for Clippens Tip) – some areas may be unsuitable for development, but could vacant and derelict land (VDL) contribute to green network. Delivering action in disadvantaged SIMD data for this area does not highlight significant issues of communities Addressing open space inequalities and maximising disadvantage. community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is cross boundary between Edinburgh and Midlothian. Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with the scale of land use change should be achieved Deliverability through a co-ordinated approach;

taking account of individual site Is the proposal something that requirements set out in the relevant could be cheap and easily LDPs. Delivery may be more delivered or will it be expensive complicated due to different phasing and require lots of co-ordination? of land allocations – important that delivery is co-ordinated across site. Green network delivery will be Timescale dependent on delivery of development and availability of Is the timescale for delivery clear funding sources. or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a significant-sized area, with a CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN Scale and importance of high level of land use change context proposed. Forming a key gateway Given all of the above criteria is the Clear agenda for green network and interface between Midlothian and relative importance of this proposal to development in this area, particularly Is this proposal important for the Edinburgh, this area has some SES PLAN given development proposed and immediate locale, for the wider excellent existing assets and on the gateway location area or for the region? overall terms the area is an important VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or priority. LOW? VERY HIGH

Area/Project 10a. Gorebridge to Dalkeith, including the A7/Borders Rail Development Area Background • Potential for around 1,700 new houses through area, in addition • Issues in terms of maintaining settlement identity and avoiding visual and Context: to existing allocations yet to be built physical coalescence between settlements: Eskbank/Dalkeith, • Borders Railway and A7 run through area of significant new Newtongrange, Mayfield and Gorebridge development Improving quality of place Large amount of development proposed across a number of settlements. providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to existing Improving quality of place, whilst maintaining a sense of place is highly and proposed communities important moving forward. Attracting inward investment Provides the landscape setting for and gateway to surrounding settlements, supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving the shaping wider impressions of the area, including as a place to invest. attractiveness of existing ones Enabling climate change adaptation Includes River South Esk and tributaries with opportunities for green helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme weather network enhancements. Existing assets require protection. events Established active travel provision and more local recreation routes. Improving active travel connections, delivering routes through development Providing for higher levels of active travel to connect to wider regional routes and recreation assets are priorities,

developing the walking and cycling network alongside improving connections between settlements, to rail stations and local centres. East-west connections to the Bonnyrigg area are also a key consideration. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives This is an issue to address in existing areas, as well as in the creation of new areas of housing. Aspiration to safeguard and connect to a Newbattle enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing spaces for Strategic Greenspace safeguard which might serve as a country park in the sport, recreation, play or community growing longer-term for adjoining communities. Area currently has relatively high levels of habitat connectivity, which includes ancient woodland along the incised River Esk; further Enabling bio-diversity to flourish improvements could be delivered in certain key locations and for new areas creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife of housing, through well-designed planting which reinforces landscape character. Landscape character generally well defined; assets include the designed

Strengthening landscape character landscapes and extensive woodland policies, woodland associated with the improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, including those River South Esk and tributaries. Enhancing the landscape setting, designated as Special Landscape Areas maintaining individual settlement identities and avoiding coalescence are priorities. Improving vacant and derelict land enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for vacant and There are no significant areas of vacant and derelict land. derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged Contains places within the most 20% deprived areas in Scotland (SIMD 2012). Green network offers potential for all parts of the community to communities Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and benefit from active travel opportunities and access to the countryside and health benefits other settlements.

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within Midlothian Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with the scale of land use change should be achieved Deliverability through a co-ordinated approach;

taking account of individual site Is the proposal something that requirements set out in the relevant could be cheap and easily LDPs. Delivery may be more delivered or will it be expensive complicated due to different phasing and require lots of co-ordination? of land allocations – important that delivery is co-ordinated across site. Green network delivery will be Timescale dependent on delivery of development and availability of Is the timescale for delivery clear funding sources. or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a moderate-sized area, which CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN defines the setting of a number of Scale and importance of settlements, with a relatively high level of land use change proposed, context Given all of the above criteria is the Important agenda for green network making the area an important landscape priority. relative importance of this proposal to development to maintain landscape Is this proposal important for the SES PLAN quality and settlement identify, and immediate locale, for the wider to improve access and recreation area or for the region? VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? MEDIUM

Area/Project 10b. Holyrood to Dalkeith, including the South East Edinburgh Development Area Background • Area centred on the green network wedge which extends from Holyrood • Borders Railway runs through the area Context: Park to Dalkeith Country Park. Includes the South East Edinburgh SDA • Area important to setting of the city and surrounding settlements, where substantial development on the edge of Edinburgh, Midlothian green belt character and gateways and East Lothian, is planned/proposed business and mixed use • Development principles largely established – but need to review in relation to any additional allocations Area of substantial change, with a large number of adjoining developments Improving quality of place spanning this cross-boundary area. A co-ordinated approach to green providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to network development which establishes and maintains a sense of place existing and proposed communities and delivers cross-boundary connections will be important. Attracting inward investment Key gateway to the city and an important interface area. Highly visible from supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving the the city bypass, A1 and A68. Area includes multiple business sites. attractiveness of existing ones Enabling climate change adaptation Water management is a key issue for new developments and green helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme network enhancements. weather events Active travel provision requires enhancement in the South East Edinburgh SDA. Better and more strategic links between Edinburgh/Midlothian and Providing for higher levels of active travel East Lothian addressing key barriers such as the City Bypass (A720), A1,

developing the walking and cycling network Sheriffhall roundabout and railway lines, and connections with wider regional routes and recreational assets are key priorities to support growth within and beyond this area. Facilitating people to lead healthier lives This is an important issue to address in existing communities and new enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing spaces areas of development. for sport, recreation, play or community growing Estate woodlands have a relatively high biodiversity value. Well-designed Enabling bio-diversity to flourish planting which strengthens landscape character and provides habitat creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife connection and a setting for development should be the priority.

Landscape character is well defined in places. Maintaining and Strengthening landscape character strengthening the landscape setting and key gateways are a priority. East- improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, west ridges are a key feature to safeguard. Scope for a substantial including those designated as Special Landscape Areas landscape framework. Improving vacant and derelict land Includes several bings in the Shawfair/Danderhall area and areas of former enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for vacant mine workings. Poor ground condition at Niddrie Bing. and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged Includes a number of places in the 20% most deprived areas in Scotland communities (SIMD 2012). Green network offers potential for all parts of the community Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and to benefit from active travel opportunities and access to the countryside health benefits and other settlements.

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is cross-boundary between Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Cross boundary influence Lothian.

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with the scale of land use change should be achieved Deliverability through a co-ordinated approach;

taking account of individual site Is the proposal something that requirements set out in the relevant could be cheap and easily delivered LDPs. Delivery may be more or will it be expensive and require complicated due to different phasing lots of co-ordination? of land allocations – important that delivery is co-ordinated across site. Green network delivery will be Timescale dependent on delivery of development and availability of Is the timescale for delivery clear or funding sources. uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a substantial-sized area, with CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN significant land use change proposed, in an important and highly visible Scale and importance of context gateway/interface area, spanning a Clear agenda for green network number of local authority boundaries, Given all of the above criteria is the development in this area, Is this proposal important for the making it an important landscape relative importance of this proposal to particularly given the extent of immediate locale, for the wider area priority. SES PLAN development proposed across or for the region? adjoining local authorities. VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? VERY HIGH

Area/Project 11a. Forth Coast – South Queensferry to Musselburgh Background • Stretching from Port Edgar to Musselburgh, along the coastal margin • Incorporating strategic development areas at the Context: • Area is focussed on the coastal edge and the immediate hinterland of the coast Waterfront and Leith Area continues to be a focus of ongoing change, with a number of Improving quality of place planned and proposed developments. Improving the quality and design of providing attractive and well integrated green networks close the coastal edge facilities and connecting communities to the coast are to existing and proposed communities priorities. Includes major employment areas along the waterfront. Green network Attracting inward investment enhancement will improve attractiveness of the area on a city wide basis, supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving helping to attract visitors, develop tourism and encourage high quality the attractiveness of existing ones developments which deliver improved prosperity. Includes the waterfront and coastal flood plain. Water management is a Enabling climate change adaptation key issue for new developments and green network enhancements. helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme Management of coastal defences and opportunities to de-culvert and weather events retrofit SUDs will be important in responding to climate change. Improving the quality of existing walking and cycling network along shore, and connecting inland. Completing the Waterfront Promenade, improving Providing for higher levels of active travel connections between neighbourhoods, the city and waterfront, and

developing the walking and cycling network addressing active travel through Joppa, are priorities. Delivery of a River Almond Route, and enabling connections to West Lothian and Fife remain realistic ambitions. An important priority in existing communities and new development, while Facilitating people to lead healthier lives also attracting users from the wider city area. Improving the quality of

enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing existing assets and enhancing access, will encourage greater use of the spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing green network – delivering improved levels of walking, cycling, recreation and enjoyment of the outdoors. Intertidal area of significant habitat value (SPA, RAMSAR, SSSI Enabling bio-diversity to flourish designations); likely potential to enhance, along with coastal grasslands.

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife Managing invasive non-native species and improving status of watercourses discharging into the Forth also a priority. Landscape character is well defined in places, including assets of Strengthening landscape character Dalmeny Estate and Laurieston Castle. Past land uses have led to improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, fragmented character and variable quality elsewhere; strengthening including those designated as Special Landscape Areas character and improving quality are high priorities. Improving vacant and derelict land Areas in need of regeneration remain particularly around Granton, Leith enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for and Newhaven, including VDL; enhancing environmental quality and vacant and derelict land (VDL) enabling new uses remain priorities. Delivering action in disadvantaged communities Includes a number of SIMD datazones with high levels of disadvantage. Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area Cross-boundary between Edinburgh and East Lothian, but also highly Cross boundary influence visible in views from Fife.

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Some delivery associated with land use change. Wider projects will be Deliverability dependent on available funding.

Important that delivery is co-ordinated Is the proposal something that and set within a wider vision for the could be cheap and easily area. delivered or will it be expensive and require lots of co-ordination?

Some delivery is dependent on Timescale development, other initiatives will depend on development of design Is the timescale for delivery clear strategy and available funding – the or uncertain? overall context for delivery is complex. Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a substantial-sized area, CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN stretching along the waterfront, with a high level of land use change proposed. The area is an important Scale and importance of context Given all of the above criteria is the coastal regeneration priority that Clear agenda for green network relative importance of this proposal to could have wider benefits for the development in this area, as an Is this proposal important for the SES PLAN population of the city and its area of coastal regeneration immediate locale, for the wider area or for the region? surrounding areas. VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or VERY HIGH LOW?

Area/Project 11b. Forth Coast – Musselburgh to Cockenzie, Port Seton, Longniddry and inland to Tranent Background • Area focussed on Musselburgh, Wallyford, Prestonpans, Port Seton, Cockenzie, • Includes part of the John Muir Way and coastal green network Context: Tranent, Macmerry and Whitecraig which are also likely to be a focus for assets, which are of recreational and wildlife value development • A1 and the East Coast main line railway run through the area • Area includes the proposed new settlement at Blindwells and the national development at Cockenzie Area of substantial change, with a number of new and possible further Improving quality of place proposed developments. Improving poorer quality assets, avoiding providing attractive and well integrated green networks close to coalescence and establishing and maintaining a sense of place are a existing and proposed communities priority. Attracting inward investment Includes major employment areas along the waterfront. Green network supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving the enhancement will also help provide setting and attract high quality attractiveness of existing ones development. Includes waterfront and coastal flood plain. Water management is a key Enabling climate change adaptation issue for new developments and green network enhancements. helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme Management of coastal defences and opportunities to de-culvert and weather events retrofit SUDs will be important in responding to climate change. Existing walking and cycling network. Route development to better connect settlements, to improve access to the coast and public transport Providing for higher levels of active travel and to upgrade quality of active travel connections to the city are priorities developing the walking and cycling network (along the A199 for example). Partial path network along River Esk – ambition to complete, linking to nearby communities. Improving the quality of existing assets and enhancing access, will Facilitating people to lead healthier lives encourage greater use of the green network for expanding settlements – enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing delivering improved levels of walking, cycling, recreation and enjoyment spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing of the outdoors. Intertidal area of significant habitat value (SPA, RAMSAR, SSSI Enabling bio-diversity to flourish designations). Improving the ecological status of watercourses

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife discharging into the Forth delivering well-designed planting which provides a landscape setting for new development are priorities. Panoramic views towards Edinburgh, the Forth and Fife – recognise this Strengthening landscape character resource and incorporate it into the design and layout of new improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, development. Enhancing and improving landscape settings, maintaining including those designated as Special Landscape Areas individual settlement identities and avoiding coalescence are priorities. Improving vacant and derelict land Areas in need of regeneration remain, including some VDL; enhancing enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for environmental quality and enabling new uses remain priorities. vacant and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged communities Parts of Prestonpans, Tranent and Musselburgh are within the 20% most Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community deprived areas of Scotland (SIMD 2012). and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within East Lothian, but enabling high quality Cross boundary influence cross-boundary active travel

connections with Edinburgh form an Does the proposal have influence important part of the vision. or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Delivery associated with land use change; delivery may be more Deliverability complicated due to different land

allocations – important that delivery is Is the proposal something that co-ordinated across site boundaries could be cheap and easily at an early stage and set within a delivered or will it be expensive wider vision for the area as a whole. and require lots of co-ordination?

Green network delivery is largely Timescale likely to depend on development and the overall context for delivery is Is the timescale for delivery clear complex. or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a significant-sized area, with a CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN high level of land use change Scale and importance of proposed across a number of settlements. Forming a key gateway context Given all of the above criteria is the Clear agenda for green network and interface area, this is an important landscape priority. relative importance of this proposal to development in this area, Is this proposal important for the SES PLAN particularly given the extent of immediate locale, for the wider development proposed. area or for the region? VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or LOW? HIGH

Area/Project 12. Central Borders Area Background • Centred on the River Tweed, the area includes the Central Borders and • Area will be served by the Borders rail Context: Western Borders Development Areas, which include allocations for 3,300 • Green Network assets include long distance routes, Glentress, homes in current and proposed plans, alongside employment uses Tweed Valley forests and designed landscapes Improving quality of place Maintaining and improving the quality of existing places and providing attractive and well integrated green networks close landscapes, successfully integrating and connecting local to existing and proposed communities communities and maintaining a sense of place are highly important. Attracting inward investment The green network has an important role in accommodating new supporting the delivery of new business areas and improving business sites and developing the important role of leisure based the attractiveness of existing ones tourism within the local economy. Enabling climate change adaptation Includes River Tweed and tributaries. Water management is a key

helping urban and rural areas adapt to flooding and extreme issue for new developments and green network enhancements. weather events Selkirk and Galashiels have planned flood prevention schemes. Existing network, including a number of long-distance routes. The Providing for higher levels of active travel priority is to improve levels of active travel between settlements

developing the walking and cycling network through the delivery of multi-use paths along the Tweed; former railway line routes are safeguarded for this purpose. Improving quality of assets and enhancing access, will encourage Facilitating people to lead healthier lives greater use of the green network – delivering improved levels of enabling people to increase their activity levels by providing walking, cycling, recreation and enjoyment of the outdoors, including spaces for sport, recreation, play or community growing by those from outwith the area. Area currently has relatively high levels of habitat connectivity, which

includes woodland along the River Tweed; Further improvements Enabling bio-diversity to flourish could be delivered in new areas of housing, through well-designed

creating, enhancing and connecting sites for wildlife planting which reinforces character and creates an appropriate setting. Other habitats of importance are also in the area and could be integrated into green network proposals. Landscape character generally well defined; assets include the Strengthening landscape character designed landscapes, field patterns and the extensive woodland

improving the existing character and quality of landscapes, policies associated with the River Tweed and tributaries. Enhancing including those designated as Special Landscape Areas the landscape setting of places, maintaining individual settlement identities and avoiding coalescence are priorities. Improving vacant and derelict land enhancing environmental quality and enabling new uses for There are no substantial VDL sites in this area vacant and derelict land (VDL) Delivering action in disadvantaged communities SIMD data highlights some small pockets of disadvantage in Galashiels. Addressing open space inequalities and maximising community and health benefits

Other Influencing Factors Notes Plan of Area This area is entirely within Scottish Borders Council. Cross boundary influence

Does the proposal have influence or connectivity between Local Authorities?

Some delivery associated with land Deliverability use change; other projects will be dependent on landowner Is the proposal something that agreement/available funding. could be cheap and easily delivered or will it be expensive and require lots of co- ordination?

Delivery is likely to be complex, Timescale through a range of mechanisms, and over a range of timescales. Is the timescale for delivery clear or uncertain? Is the proposal something that would be delivered in the short, medium or long term?

This is a substantial-sized area, CONCLUSION – Relative Importance for SES PLAN Scale and importance of forming the setting for a number of settlements, with relatively high levels Strong agenda for a strategic context Given all of the above criteria is the of development proposed and a approach to green network relative importance of this proposal to growing tourism role. enhancement in this area, given Is this proposal important for the SES PLAN development proposed and its immediate locale, for the wider area or for the region? growing tourism role VERY HIGH, HIGH, MEDIUM or

LOW? HIGH

3.0 Regional Walking and Cycling Network

3.1 Background

As set out in section 1, walking and cycling routes that connect places and/or provide for recreation were identified as a significant theme when reviewing green network priorities for the MIR. NPF3 sets out that walking and cycling should be a priority for early action within the Central Scotland Green Network. In its Cycling Action Plan for Scotland (CAPS), the Scottish Government has set a vision for 10% of all journeys to be made by bicycle by 2020. Scottish Planning Policy also includes support for the identification of a walking and cycling network and prioritisation of these modes of travel. A significant increase in expenditure on cycling related infrastructure will be required to achieve this.

The Regional Walking and Cycling Network diagram and accompanying text is set out in the Better Connected Place section of the MIR. This is to reflect the importance of improved walking and cycling opportunities as a key means of achieving SESplan aims of increasing modal shift towards sustainable modes of travel. Delivery of routes within the Regional Walking and Cycling Network diagram and accompanying table help to:

- tackle congestion; - accommodate new development whilst minimising additional associated traffic; - minimise existing and reduce carbon emissions associated with travel; - create attractive, investable and more sustainable locations; - improve connections to employment opportunities; - provide leisure opportunities; and - improve health and well-being.

3.2 Work Undertaken

At the May 2014 Green Network Workshop, discussions on spatial priorities revealed the importance of active travel as a key theme. A significant number of the 32 spatial green network priorities related to active travel, with five being exclusively focussed on route proposals. The 15 overall green network priority areas identified in the MIR and in Sections 1 and 2 have significant active travel content.

Based on this information, a dedicated walking and cycling workshop was held in September 2014 attended by member authority planning and active travel officers and staff from SESTRAN, Transport Scotland, SNH and Sustrans. The purpose was to discuss and map the regionally important existing, planned and proposed aspirational routes that arose from the green network discussions and other initiatives. Much of this was linked to emerging Local Development Plans and active travel strategies at local authority levels. The workshop also considered physical gaps and barriers that exist and can deter or prevent increased walking and cycling. At the time SESTRAN were also preparing their Cross Boundary Cycling Study which sought to identify gaps, barriers and opportunities on cross-boundary routes.

The regional map of walking and cycling routes was then evolved through consultation with authorities to produce the diagram included in the MIR and Table 1 below which provides detail on the routes.

Figure 2 and Table 1 identifies the key existing, planned and proposed/aspirational routes.

- Existing routes focus on the key national cycle routes in the SESplan region and the great trails and long distance paths such as the John Muir Way and Union Canal. - Planned routes are those which are intended for delivery and have further detail on the basis for specific route selection, such as planning consent or feasibility and delivery studies. - Proposed/Aspirational routes set out initial views on the longer term need for new routes or route extensions to improve walking and cycling connectivity and network quality. Table 2 sets out further route proposals to connect places but where detailed consideration has not yet been given to routing. These may be considered for inclusion in the diagram and detailed table in the SDP2 Proposed Plan.

Some of the routes were identified as cycling superhighways. These are intended as higher capacity, directional cycle routes connecting hinterland towns along transport corridors, providing direct access into and out from Edinburgh. Cycle superhighways identified include the A8/A89, A1/A199 and the A71.

Following consideration of the consultation responses, further work undertaken between the MIR and the Proposed Plan refined the routes, the diagram and informed the Action Programme. Figure 2: Regional Walking & Cycling Network

Table 1: SESplan Regional Walking and Cycling Routes

No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational 1 North Sea Cycle Existing International long cycling route around the North East Lothian Route & Trail Sea. In SESplan this follows the East Lothian Edinburgh Coastal Path and Berwickshire Way or NCN1 Fife through the Borders. Through Edinburgh it Scottish Borders crosses the Forth and then north and east through Fife to St Andrews. 2 John Muir Way Great Trail Existing Long distance coast to coast route connecting East Lothian Edinburgh Dunbar to Helensburgh via Edinburgh and West West Lothian Lothian. Braided way with different routes from cyclists and walkers.

Improvements/alterations are required at points including East Lothian at Levenhall, Gosford Bay, Cockenzie and North Berwick.

3 Union Canal Great Trail, NCN Existing Walking, cycling, off-road canal towpath route Edinburgh 754 from Edinburgh to Falkirk via West Lothian. West Lothian There is a need to make surface improvements to the towpath in rural sections to improve cycling.

4 NCN1 NCN1 Existing Off and on-road national cycle route connecting Scottish Borders Dover to the Shetlands. In SESplan it runs from Midlothian Edinburgh Scottish Borders to Fife via Midlothian and Fife Edinburgh. Requires upgrades in places. 5 South East wedge – Planned and Proposed Strategic Development Area requiring significant East Lothian links between co-ordinated action to link up key destinations Edinburgh Midlothian Edinburgh, across three authorities in area. Key links include: Midlothian , East Lothian • quality links to Borders Railway stations; • potential to use cow tunnel under A720 to Dalkeith Country Park; • Shawfair/Craighall across A1 to Queen Margaret University and Musselburgh No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational Station; • Shawfair and Musselburgh to Newcraighall/Fort Kinnaird • Westward links at Millerhill Marshalling Yards linking between employment land with housing development. 6 West Fife Way NCN 764 Existing Suitable for walking and cycling, primarily off- Fife road along a disused railway line. Serving Dunfermline to Alloa Dunfermline, Gowkhall, Carnock, Oakley, Blairhall and settlements west into Clackmannanshire as far as Alloa. 7 Pilgrim’s Way Planned A long-distance recreational route, which also Fife helps to better connect settlements. Primarily Culross and North suitable for walking but some sections suitable Queensferry and on for cycling. to St.Andrews, via the Ore Valley Will utilise a number of existing core paths, with some path upgrades, new connections and addressing of barriers required.

Will serve the settlements of: Culross, Valleyfield, Torryburn, Cairneyhill, Crossford, North Queensferry, Inverkeithing, Rosyth, Dunfermline, Halbeath, Kingseat, Kelty, Lochore, Crosshill, Ballingry, Auchterderran, Kinglassie, Glenrothes, Markinch, Windygates, Kennoway, Ceres and St Andrews. 8 Fife Coastal Path Great Trail Existing Coastal path, with some on-street sections Fife through coastal settlements. Suitable for walking (some sections, largely in the west of the route are suitable for cycling). 9 Alloa to Kirkcaldy NCN 76 Existing Mixture of on and off road around the Forth Fife coastline. 10 A985 active travel Proposed Proposed between Waggon Road, Crossford Fife route and Rosyth. Segregated off-road walking and cycling route to provide a direct, safe link along this busy road, to connect existing routes. No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational 11 Halbeath to Kelty via Planned Provide a safe cycling link along this busy road, Fife Crossgates and connecting the settlements of Halbeath, Cowdenbeath Crossgates, Cowdenbeath and Kelty, including to the Park and Ride facilities at Halbeath. 12 Dunfermline to Existing Dunfermline to Kirkcaldy cycleway – Fife Kirkcaldy cycleway predominantly off-road from Cowdenbeath to Kirkcaldy utilising the Fife core path network.

13 NCN76 – Extension Proposed NCN 76 Planned Would extend NCN76 to St. Andrews, east from Fife Kirkcaldy via the East Neuk, providing an off- road walking and cycling route which also links settlements.

Also includes upgrade of the existing NCN76 route between Kinghorn and Kirkcaldy to off- road. Feasibility study exists. 14 Kirkcaldy to NCN 766 Existing (Glenrothes to Glenrothes to Thornton off-road section exists. Fife Glenrothes, via Thornton) Thornton to Kirkcaldy planned along the B9130, Thornton Planned (Thornton to including upgrade of crossing at A92 Kirkcaldy) roundabout. 15 A92 active travel Proposed Segregated off-road active travel provision Fife route needed to provide a safe link along this busy road, to link Glenrothes and the Howe of Fife settlements. 16 Avon Heritage Trail Existing Ten mile recreational walking route along the West Lothian River Avon. Cycling impractical along most of eight mile route. Potential for extension to Torphichen.

17 Bathgate Hills Proposed Proposed traffic calmed north-south and east- West Lothian west routes through the Bathgate Hills along roads for recreational purposes serving Linlithgow, Bathgate and Livingston, Broxburn.

18 Airdrie - Bathgate NCN 75 Existing (to Kirknewton) Off-road walking and cycling route serving the Edinburgh Livingston - settlements of: West Lothian Kirknewton – West Lothian Core No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational Balerno – Water of Path:1 Proposed (to Balerno) Blackridge Armadale, Bathgate Livingston, Leith Kirknewton. Potential for creating off-road section between Kirknewton and Balerno utilising former railway alignment (and tunnel under A70) safeguarded in the emerging Edinburgh LDP.

19 A71 Cycle None Proposed/Aspirational Aspirational cycling, partial off-road (TBC) route Edinburgh Superhighway along the A71 corridor from East Calder via West Lothian Livingston to Heriot Watt University and Edinburgh. Would provide a safe route along this busy road.

20 A89/A8 Cycle West Lothian Core Existing (Edinburgh Walking and cycling partial off-road route Edinburgh Superhighway Path:10 Newbridge boundary to Bathgate) serving: West Edinburgh, airport, Newbridge, West Lothian _ Dechmont. Proposed (west to Ratho Station, Broxburn, Uphall, Bathgate, Blackburn, Whitburn and Harthill. Harthill / North Bathgate - Lanarkshire boundary) In Edinburgh LDP area paths are narrow and Harthill safeguarded poorly surfaced in sections. Some intersections cycle route along require upgraded cycle crossing facilities. Links A7066 / A706 / to major development sites such as the B7066 International Business Gateway.

21 River Almond & West Lothian Core Partially Existing, Walking recreational route serving: Livingston, West Lothian Breich Valley Trail Path 40 (east part) Partially Planned and Seafield West Calder, Breich Valley Villages, partially Proposed Fauldhouse.

A feasibility study by the Central Scotland Green Network Trust exists to connect up several existing path stretches.

22 Round the Forth NCN 76 Existing Mostly off-road, Bo’ness to Blackness is under Edinburgh route (Bo’ness to construction. Falkirk Cramond) West Lothian No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational 23 Edinburgh Proposed NCN 76 Partially Existing, Cramond to Joppa with on-road improvements East Lothian Waterfront Partially Planned and required to connect to Musselburgh. This route Edinburgh Promenade partially Proposed has many existing sections and essentially follows the route closest to the coastline.

24 Cammo to Proposed Connection between A8 and A90 transport Edinburgh Gogar/Maybury corridors from Barnton/Cammo to Maybury/Gogar area. Some elements will be delivered with LDP housing schemes and International Gateway Station.

25 Water of Leith Trail Part NCN 75 Existing Primarily recreational trail from Balerno to Leith. Edinburgh Some sections unsurfaced, narrow and with steps.

26 Cross Borders Drove Great Trail Existing This long distance route which promotes various Edinburgh Scottish Road methods of active travel commences in Hawick, Borders West Lothian and passes through the settlements of Selkirk, Innerleithen, Peebles and West Linton in Scottish Borders. The route then continues through to East Calder, Livingston and Edinburgh thereby connecting a number of council authority areas. 27 Edinburgh Proposed Aspirational mostly green route following the Edinburgh Midlothian Peripheral, north of A720. Would include route along former railway the bypass path between Straiton and Shawfair connecting significant development locations.

28 Edinburgh to Potentially Existing to Roslin Connects Edinburgh to Roslin (through Edinburgh Midlothian Peebles transfer NCN1 to Planned to Peebles Meadows, Liberton, Gilmerton and Lasswade Scottish Borders this route when Road, Straiton and Loanhead). Requires junction upgrades and some footway completed redetermination.

Southern section will use former Peebles Railway route. The path will connect with the successful Peebles to Innerleithen Path and will No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational also promote increased access to Glentress. The proposed section of path will improve connectivity between Scottish Borders and Midlothian

29 Peebles to Proposed NCN 1 Existing (Peebles to A section of multi-use path running from Scottish Borders Galashiels Innerleithen) Peebles to Innerleithen passing through Proposed (Innerleithen Cardrona has already been implemented. to Galashiels) Works have already taken place within Galashiels as part of the reinstatement of the railway. This new route would primarily be constructed on the route of the former Peebles to Galashiels railway line. This active travel route will assist in connecting the Western and Central Borders Strategic Development Areas as well as providing a more sustainable route to the new railway stations at Galashiels and Tweedbank. The proposed path would serve Walkerburn and Clovenfords. 30 John Buchan Way Existing The John Buchan Way links Peebles, Stobo and Scottish Borders Broughton. The route is part on-road and part off road. 31 John Buchan Way to The Clyde Walkway Planned This proposed extension of the John Buchan Scottish Borders the Clyde Walkway is a Great Trail Way would link to the Clyde Walkway, and would provide a linkage between the Borders Strategic Green Network and the western part of the Central Scotland Green Network. 32 Southern Upland Great Trail Existing The route of the Southern Upland Way is an on Scottish Borders Way to and off road route which passes through Cockburnspath Scottish Borders from the west to the north-east. The route passes though the following settlements – Traquair, Galashiels, Melrose and Lauder, Longformacus, Abbey St Bathans, Cove and Cockburnspath. The route is popular with locals and tourists alike for both long and short distance journeys. 33 Dunbar to Stranraer Proposed This proposed new route is also supported by Dumfries & Galloway Dumfries and Galloway Council (D&G) would East Lothian Scottish No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational link western and eastern Scotland. The three Borders council areas (Scottish Borders, Dumfries and Galloway and East Lothian) would benefit from better connections. The proposed path would assist in promoting active travel and tourism.

It would include a new multi-use path between Earlston and Reston along the former Berwickshire Railway and would connect to the new Reston Station. The path would also connect Gordon, Greenlaw and Duns. 34 Borders Abbey Way Great Trail Existing The Borders Abbey Way is an attractive and Scottish Borders scenic active travel route which is both on and off road and also connects the main towns within the Central Borders Strategic Development Area. 35 St. Cuthbert’s Way Great Trail Existing Melrose to Holy Island long distance walking Scottish Borders route. An attractive and scenic route which is both on and off road. 36 Berwickshire Coastal Great Trail Existing Cockburnspath to Berwick long distance walking Scottish Borders Path route. An attractive and scenic route which is both on and off road. 37 East Lothian Coastal Existing Primarily a walking route along the coast. East Lothian Path Includes the John Muir Link from Dunbar to Cockburnspath walking route linking the John Muir Way with the Southern Upland Way. There is also potential for connecting with the Berwickshire Coastal Path. 38 River Tyne Path Existing (Dunbar to Recreational route along the river Tyne from East Lothian Haddington) Dunbar to Haddington via East Linton. It is Proposed (to proposed to extend that path to Pencaitland with Pencaitland longer term aspirations to connect to Vogrie Country Park 39 A199 – East Lothian Existing NCN route Proposed Spinal route would serve settlements: East Lothian Cycling and Walking upgrade to off-road Dunbar, East Linton, Haddington, Macmerry, Edinburgh Superhighway Tranent, Wallyford, Musselburgh and onwards No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational to City of Edinburgh, with link routes off to other East Lothian settlements along the way. 40 A6093 route Proposed Off road cycling and walking route along the East Lothian A6093 connecting Pencaitland to Haddington.

41 Ormiston to Proposed Proposed link from Ormiston to Prestonpans East Lothian Prestonpans Station via Tranent. This will support greater access to secondary schools and Prestonpans station. 42 Pencaitland Railway NCN 196 Existing 7 mile walking and cycling route. Surface East Lothian Walk Proposed (to Gifford) improvements and promotion are required. Used for recreation and commuting. Proposed extension to Gifford. 43 Gullane to Drem, Proposed Aspirational off-road walking and cycling East Lothian commuter route to Drem station. 44 Haddington to NCN 76 Existing Walking and cycling former railway route from East Lothian Longniddry Railway Longniddry to Haddington. Surface Path improvements and better connectivity at Longniddry and Haddington are required. 45 River Esk Path Existing and Proposed Would run from the coast at Musselburgh along East Lothian Midlothian the Esk through to Midlothian with branches along the North to Penicuik and South Esk to Gorebridge. 46 NCN 196 NCN 196 Existing Penicuik to Musselbugh and Smeaton to Midlothian Ormiston, via Rosewell, Bonnyrigg, Dalkeith and Whitecraig. Link to NCN1 at Whitecraig. 47 Penicuik to Shawfair Existing, Planned and Cycle route between Penicuik, Roslin, Midlothian Proposed/Aspirational Loanhead, Gilmerton, Danderhall and Shawfair – on to Edinburgh and East Lothian. Shawfair is part of the South East Edinburgh Strategic Development Area. 48 Gorebridge to Existing, Planned and Cycle route from Gorebridge to Dalkeith via Midlothian Dalkeith Proposed/Aspirational Newtongrange, Mayfield and Easthouses. 49 A7 Urbanisation Planned and Cycle route along the A7 from Hardengreen Midlothian Proposed/Aspirational roundabout to Sheriffhall roundabout and Gilmerton Junction of A720. Sheriffhall roundabout is a major barrier crossing the No. Route Name Formal Existing Route Description (detailing nature and Relevant SESplan Classification (if Planned quality of route) Authorities applicable) Proposed/Aspirational Edinburgh bypass. 50 A701 Gowkley Moss Planned Cycle route from Gowkley Moss roundabout to Midlothian to Straiton Straiton Commercial Centre via Bilston and Loanhead. 51 Roslin Glen to Proposed/Aspirational Cycle route from Roslin Glen to Leadburn via Midlothian Leadburn former Rosslynlee Hospital and Pomathorn.

Table 2: Potential Further Regional Walking and Cycling Routes

Route Name Route Description (detailing nature and quality of route) & Purpose Relevant SESplan Authorities Bo’ness to Linlithgow Proposed cross boundary commuting and recreational link from Bo’ness to Linlithgow. Bo’ness does Falkirk not have a railway station and this route would offer increased sustainable travel opportunities. No West Lothian routing has been identified but options include an off-road shared path on the A803/A904 or rural roads. North and east West Cross-boundary commuting route link between major residential developments and employment areas Edinburgh Lothian to Fife in Broxburn and Winchburgh to employment and housing development areas in Fife. Will utilise Fife Bridgehead opportunities offered by existing bridge following the opening of the Queensferry crossing. Routes from West Lothian Winchburgh and Broxburn to South Queensferry have yet to be identified.

Newbridge to South Route connecting major transport corridors and employment areas. Could utilise former railway track Edinburgh Queensferry bed between Newbridge and Kirkliston and existing route between Kirkliston and South Queensferry. 4.0 Refinement of Strategic Green Network Content Post MIR

4.1 Main Issues Report Consultation and Feedback

The MIR was published for public consultation on 21 July 2015 for ten weeks. Issue J: Strategic Green Networks and associated Question 16 in the MIR asked:

• Do you support the preferred option, the alternative option or none of the options? Please explain your answer. You may also suggest any changes. • Do the SESplan green network themes and aims capture the key issues for green network development in the area? • Does the map of proposed regional green network priority areas identify the appropriate areas to focus on? Are any priority areas missing from Figure 4.2? If so, which areas should be added and why?

SESplan received 117 separated responses to this issue and question. A short analysis of question 16 is set out in paragraph 3.33 of the MIR Consultation Report to the SESplan Joint Committee in December 2015. Appendix 2 to that report contains summaries of the points made in the responses of the SESplan Joint Committee Report.

The key messages from the analysis of the responses are:

• 66% of the responses supported the preferred option of the SDP identifying priority green network areas for green network safeguarding, enhancement and creation and key areas of cross-boundary working identified at the regional level. These would then be reflected in LDPs with a more appropriate level of local detail. • There was support for the SDP to play a role by identifying priorities to achieve CSGN and NPF3 objectives. • There was strong support for green networks integrating with existing communities and with new development. • The SDP should focus on cross-boundary green networks as these can be missed at a local level. • The SDP needs to be clear about the purpose of green networks and green belts. There was some concern that the development of green networks was to act as compensation for the loss or development of green belt land. Green networks should not replace green belts. • Some respondents with development interests raised concerns regarding the deliverability of green network initiatives and that the burden of delivery may affect the viability of development. Others stated that green networks should not limit the growth of settlements. • A large number of responses suggested other areas that should be identified as green network priority areas. These included further parts of the East Lothian Coast, the Fife Bridgehead Area and more areas of Scottish Borders.

4.2 Progress to Proposed Plan

In Section 1 of the Green Network Technical Note it was stated that SESplan would revise the priority area summary statements and identify the strategic principles and connections for green network development in these areas. However, following the review of the consultation responses, a modified approach to green networks in the Proposed Plan emerged. The Proposed Plan would still identify priority areas for green network delivery, with the supporting information in this Green Network Technical Note. Separate green network frameworks, developed as guidance, for each priority area are considered more appropriate for setting out the green network assets, opportunities and needs in areas of significant growth and change.

Green network frameworks will:

• Identify and safeguard those elements of the green network that provide, or have the potential to provide, the greatest benefits for people and nature; • Identify strategic enhancements to green networks that will add value to existing settlements, developments for which land has been allocated and any new allocations in subsequent LDPs; and • Provide an additional context for planning decisions.

Guidance for green network priority areas that are completely within one SESplan member authority will be prepared by that authority. The key elements of the frameworks will inform the development of that authority’s LDP. For cross boundary priority areas, as responses suggested, SESplan will take the lead, reflecting the need for a greater level of co-ordination. These cross boundary frameworks will be developed as statutory supplementary guidance and will therefore be part of the development plan.

Based on this modified approach to the green network priority areas, work post MIR consultation focussed on:

A. Reviewing whether any additional priority areas should be included. B. Modifications and consolidation of priority areas and identification cross boundary priority areas.

A. Reviewing whether any additional priority areas should be included. In response to the MIR consultation, a number of areas were suggested for identification as a green network priority area in the SDP. Some of these had already been considered in the original scoping exercise in 2014. Table 3 below sets out the areas suggested for inclusion as green network priority areas and the reasons why they were discounted.

Table 3: Suggested Green Network Priority Areas

Suggested Priority Area Reasoning for Exclusion Fife Bridgehead Three areas are already identified as priority areas in Fife. They are considered greater green network priorities as they have a greater alignment with the green network themes than the Fife Bridgehead area. The Fife Bridgehead also likes outside either of the SDP1 Fife Strategic Development Areas. By identifying this area as a priority, this would dilute the importance of other priority areas in Fife. East Lothian Coast The East Lothian Coast up to Longniddry is included within the Edinburgh and East Green Network Priority Area. Much of the remained of the East Lothian Coast is covered by statutory protections and designations. The area is not the focus of significant levels of development and does not suffer from deprivation or vacant and derelict land issues. Therefore the identification of this area as a green network priority would not strongly correlate with the green network themes. Green networks in this area are best devolved to the East Lothian LDP. Eastern Borders As with the East Lothian Coast, much of the Eastern Borders is covered by other designations. The area is not the focus of significant levels of development and does not suffer from deprivation or vacant and derelict land issues. Therefore the identification of this area as a green network priority would not strongly correlate with the green network themes. Green Networks in this area are best devolved to the Scottish Borders LDP.

B. Modifications and consolidation of priority areas. Identify cross boundary priority areas. Following the review of the consultation responses, it was considered that some modifications were required to the priority areas. These ranged from adjustments to the boundaries to some consolidation of adjacent priority areas to create larger cross boundary priority areas, reflecting cross boundary interaction. Table 4 below sets out the significant changes.

Table 4: Modifications to Priority Areas

MIR Priority Area Proposed Plan Modification Reason Priority Area 2 - Ore Valley & Settlements 2 - Ore Valley Expanded to Need to include wider include Southern area of Ore Valley Glenrothes Strategic Development Area from SDP1 and consider the interaction of South and West Glenrothes with nearby settlements. 7A - Broxburn Area and surrounds 7 - Edinburgh & Merge into one Significant area of including Uphall, Winchburgh & A8 West area change where large corridor west to Newbridge scale development will 7B - West Edinburgh to Newbridge, have cross boundary including the A8 corridor east implications. Cross 8 - East Calder Area, including the A71 local authority co- corridor east to Edinburgh ordination required.

9 - Penicuik to Fairmilehead, including 8 - Edinburgh & Merge into one Significant area of Bilston, Loanhead/Straiton, Burdiehouse, East area change where large Hillend and the Pentland Hills fringes scale development will 10A - Gorebridge to Dalkeith, including have cross boundary the A7/Borders Rail Development Area implications. Cross 10B - Holyrood to Dalkeith, including the local authority co- South East Edinburgh Development Area ordination required. 11A - Forth Coast: South Queensferry to Musselburgh (Eastern End) 11B - Forth Coast: Musselburgh to Cockenzie, Port Seton, Longniddry and inland to Tranent 11A - Forth Coast: South Queensferry to 9 – Forth Eastern end Eastern edge of MIR Musselburgh Shores merged into area has a greater Edinburgh and strength of relationship East with Edinburgh and East Priority Area. Therefore appropriate to break up area 11A.

Based on the modifications above the number of priority areas has reduced from 15 to 10. The Green Network Priority Areas identified in the Proposed Plan are set out in the list below and in Figure 3. 1. Dunfermline North and East 2. Ore Valley 3. Kirkcaldy Gateways 4. Levenmouth & Coast 5. Linlithgow 6. Polkemmet and Breich Water 7. Edinburgh and West 8. Edinburgh and East 9. Forth Shores 10. Scottish Borders

Priority Areas 7 and 8 are cross boundary and therefore the green network frameworks for those areas will be developed as statutory supplementary guidance. This will be prepared by SESplan in partnership with key agencies and member authorities, with the final Supplementary Guidance to be adopted within one year of plan adoption1.

The priority areas represent areas of focus, therefore exact boundaries have not been identified.

1 The Proposed Plan is expected to be adopted in early 2018. Figure 3: Strategic Green Network Priority Areas

5.0 Refinement of Regional Walking & Cycling Network Post MIR

5.1 MIR Consultation and Feedback

Question 18 in the MIR related to the proposals for a Regional Walking and Cycling Network as set out in Section 3. Question 18 asked respondents:

• Have the correct routes to be developed as regional routes been identified in Figure 5.2 (Regional Walking & Cycling Network)? • Are any routes missing? Should routes be removed? If so, please indicate which routes and why they should be included or removed.

SESplan received 69 separated responses to question 18. A short analysis of question 18 is set out in paragraphs 3.37 and 3.38 of the MIR Consultation Report to the SESplan Joint Committee in December 2015. Appendix 2 to that report contains summaries of the points made in the responses of the SESplan Joint Committee Report.

The key messages from the analysis of the responses are:

• 59% of the responses agreed that the correct had been identified. Whilst this is a high proportion, many responses highlighted the poor legibility of the accompanying diagram. Therefore they couldn’t say if the correct routes had been identified. • The SDP should set out standards on width, quality and safety for routes • The SDP would be better to focus on a smaller set of key routes for commuting and leisure purposes. • The priority should be for commuter cycling routes. These routes should run parallel to or close to major trunk roads. • More emphasis is needed on local routes as most journeys by walking and cycling are short. • Additional routes not included in the MIR were suggested

5.2 Working Group

The same working group of officers from the MIR work (from SESplan, SEStran, SNH, Sustrans and Transport Scotland) was set up to review the MIR feedback and inform the Proposed Plan content. Officers from member authorities then reviewed the Proposed Plan content in a series of formal feedback periods from February to May 2016.

Following the analysis of the MIR responses, the following decisions were taken regarding how the MIR content would be refined for the Proposed Plan: A. Routes would be identified as either primarily strategic functional (primarily for commuting and other purposeful journeys) or strategic recreational routes. Definitions would be needed for both. B. Criteria would be developed for strategic functional and recreational routes. They would be used to filter the routes included in the MIR and routes suggested in the MIR responses C. Significant barriers on existing or proposed routes that deter potential walkers or cyclists would be identified D. Status would be simplified to existing or proposed route in the Plan

It was considered that the above steps would allow for a more legible and focussed diagram and actions targeted at regional level strategic walking and cycling routes. The SDP would focus on a reduced number of routes but these would be longer distance or cross boundary where the SDP can add value.

5.3 Strategic Functional or Strategic Recreational Routes

Picking up on the MIR responses, it was considered helpful to identify the difference between routes primarily intended for functional travel (commuting, going to shops, school, etc) and those routes that primarily cater to more recreational purposes. The identification of strategic functional routes aligns with the SDP’s spatial strategy and with existing transport corridors, connecting areas of population with key destinations such as other settlements, strategic employment areas, centres and major transport interchanges.

Following discussions with stakeholders, the working group agreed on the following definitions and criteria for identifying the functional and recreational routes for inclusion in the SDP:

Strategic Functional Route: A continuous active travel route that is direct between multiple key destinations and of a quality to suit all abilities. • Should be or are proposed to be off road or physically separated from traffic. • Should be of smooth surface, appropriately lit and maintained. • Providing safe crossings of road and rail routes. • Their existence or development supports modal shift away from private cars to active travel for commuting. • Key destinations being towns/cities, growth areas, significant areas of travel demand (e.g employment areas, transport hubs). • Routes that cross local authority boundaries to be included.

Strategic Recreational Route: A long distance route that it primarily used for recreational enjoyment, may be indirect, can suit different uses (such as walking, cycling and/or horse riding) and may be of varying surface. • Long distance and/or crossing local authority boundaries • Routes are likely to be predominantly pleasant/scenic routes potentially coinciding with green networks • Does not cover routes which are majority on road • Includes all Great Trails

These definitions and criteria were then refined to align more closely with the definitions in the National Walking Strategy in with the writing style of the SDP for inclusion in paragraph 6.6 of the Better Connected Place section of the Proposed Plan.

A strategic Functional Route is a continuous walking and cycling route providing a fast, direct route between multiple key destinations. It should be largely off road or physically separated from traffic, have a smooth surface and be appropriately lit and maintained so that it suits people of all abilities. A key purpose of these routes is to encourage more people to cycle or walk to school, work and the shops.

A strategic Recreational Route may be indirect, can suit a range of different uses such as horse riding and may be of varying quality. Some of these will make an important contribution to the national long distance walking and cycling network, identified as a national development in National Planning Framework 3.

The definitions reflect MIR feedback that route standards should be required by the SDP. Whilst it would not be appropriate for the SDP to set the exact required standards for routes, the definition does set out guidance for functional routes.

The SDP will focus on strategic and cross boundary routes where it can add most value and where greater coordination of delivery bodies is required. Local routes are not less important and shorter routes potentially have a greater contribution towards in modal shift but the SDP does not add value in these areas. Details and implementation of local routes is more appropriately addressed in LDPs and their accompanying Action Programmes. However, it is clear that although strategic routes are long continuous routes, they will also support many short local journeys, for example between Dalkeith and Edinburgh Royal Infirmary/Bioquarter.

Alongside the definition, the following criteria were used to screen strategic functional and recreational routes.

The finalised SESplan Strategic Walking and Cycling routes are set out in Figure 4. Details of each route are set out in Table 5. Table 6 sets out the routes that were included in the MIR but which now have been screened out and the reasoning for that decision.

Strategic functional routes follow transport corridors and existing travel patterns. They reflect the distribution of development and long term growth corridors set out in the Proposed Plan’s spatial strategy. The development of these functional routes will encourage modal shift. These routes align with the cross boundary cycling routes set out in the SEStran Strategic Cross Boundary Cycle Development Study (2015). Some of the barriers to delivering or improving strategic functional routes highlighted by the SEStran study are included in Table 5. They will be built upon following a complete audit of the existing and proposed routes, some of which are additional to those reviewed by SEStran.

Table 5 sets out whether routes are either existing or proposed. However in places, many of the existing routes will require upgrading to improve standards and usage, for example the safe crossing of roads. Information will need to be collated to audit each of the routes to identify what improvements are required.

The Action Programme accompanying the Proposed Plan includes the delivery of the functional and new recreational routes as separate actions along with identified partners. Significant increase in expenditure will be required to deliver these routes and to achieve the ambition for increased levels of walking and cycling set out by the Scottish Government.

Figure 4: Strategic Walking & Cycling Routes

Table 5: Strategic Walking & Cycling Routes Included in Proposed Plan

No. Route Name & Type Description Existing/Proposed Reason for Inclusion Barriers on Route (currently identified) 1. Dunfermline - Follows existing NCN1 out Mostly Existing Connects major growth areas Edinburgh Strategic of Edinburgh to Forth and settlements. Will promote Functional Route Bridge (including A90 modal shift. path), then mostly existing paths to Dunfermline. 2. A8/A89 Strategic Continuous path alongside Existing (Maybury - Connects major growth areas Dechmont Roundabout, Boghall Functional route A8 and A89 corridor from Bathgate) Proposed and settlements. Will promote Roundabout, Boghead Roundabout, Harthill to Edinburgh. (Bathgate - Harthill/ modal shift. Gogar Roundabout Bathgate - North Lanarkshire Harthill safeguarded cycle Boundary) route along A7066 / A706 / B7066.

3. A71 Strategic Proposed high quality off- Proposed Long distance functional route A71/A720 Junction Functional Route road route along A71 connecting large settlements corridor providing safe and Heriot-Watt University route along busy road Campus. Will promote modal corridor. shift.

4. Edinburgh - Penicuik Broadly follows A701 Proposed Connects existing settlements, Straiton A720 Junction Strategic Functional corridor from Penicuik to growth areas, Straiton Route Edinburgh. Amalgamation Commercial Centre and of a number of routes Science and Knowledge included in MIR. Cluster along key commuter corridor. Will promote modal shift. 5. Edinburgh – Broadly follows A7 Proposed Connects existing settlements Sheriffhall Roundabout (A720) Gorebridge Strategic corridor. Cycle route from and major growth areas along Functional Route Gorebridge to Dalkeith via A7/Borders Rail Corridor. Will Newtongrange, Mayfield promote modal shift. and Easthouses, crossing Sheriffhall and on to Edinburgh. Potentially including A7 urbanisation work (Hardengreen roundabout to Sheriffhall roundabout and Gilmerton No. Route Name & Type Description Existing/Proposed Reason for Inclusion Barriers on Route (currently identified) Junction of A720).

6. A1/A199 Strategic Proposed high quality Proposed Links existing settlements, A1 Grade separated junctions. Functional Route separated route through growth areas (including Crossing A1 into Edinburgh. the centre of East Lothian Blindwells) and employment broadly following the A1 locations (including Queen corridor along route of Margaret University) along A1 A199. corridor. Will promote modal shift. 7. Edinburgh Orbital Aspirational route Proposed. No current Off road route along the most A1 at Queen Margaret University, Strategic Functional following the north of the proposed route. congested road corridor in Sheriffhall Roundabout (A720), Route Edinburgh bypass (A720). region. Would link growth Gogar Junction (A8). Would include route along areas, settlements and public former railway path transport interchanges. Would between Straiton and prevent need to travel into Shawfair. Proposed linking Edinburgh for orbital with Gyle and A90 at Edinburgh journeys and Barnton. Could be promote modal shift. developed as part of Orbital Bus proposal.

8. Kirkcaldy to Mostly new high quality Proposed. Part of route Connects town major towns Redhouse Roundabout Glenrothes Strategic route via Thornton Station. already exists with strategic centres within Functional Route cycle commuting distance. Will promote modal shift. 9. Newbridge to South Follows existing railway Existing. Surface may Connects two strategic Queensferry Strategic path, connects A8 and require upgrading functional routes and provides Functional Route A8/A89 functional routes connection to the Forth Bridge

10. John Muir Way (Great Long distance coast to Existing. Long distance, mostly off road, Trail) coast route connecting Improvements/alterations cross boundary route. Great Dunbar to Helensburgh are required at points Trail. via Edinburgh and West including East Lothian at Lothian. Braided way with Levenhall, Gosford Bay, different routes from Cockenzie and North cyclists and walkers. Berwick Improvements/alterations are required at points including East Lothian at No. Route Name & Type Description Existing/Proposed Reason for Inclusion Barriers on Route (currently identified) Levenhall, Gosford Bay, Cockenzie and North Berwick

11. SESplan Coastal Continuous path around Mostly Existing. Long distance strategic Route the Forth coastline. Extensions and recreational route. Includes Overlaps with Fife Coastal upgrades planned for Great Trails. Path, NCN76 (Round the A985 Active Travel Forth Route) both existing Route and NCN76. and proposed, A985 active travel route (upgrade), John Muir Way, Edinburgh Promenade, East Lothian and Berwickshire Coastal Paths. Merging together of individual routes included in MIR.

12. Union Canal (Great Walking, cycling, off-road Existing. Need to make Long distance strategic Trail, NCN 754) canal towpath route from towpath improvements in recreational route. Great Trail Edinburgh to Falkirk via rural sections. West Lothian.

13. West Fife Way (NCN Suitable for walking and Existing Mostly off road, cross 764) cycling, primarily off-road boundary route. Mostly along a disused railway recreation but can be used for line. Joins small short and commuter journeys settlements between between settlements. Clackmannan and Dunfermline.

14. Pligrims Way – Long-distance recreational Existing and Proposed. Long distance, off road Culross & North route, which also helps to Will utilise a number of recreational route. Potential to Queensferry to St better connect existing core paths, with be a great trail. Andrews via Ore settlements. Primarily some path upgrades, Valley suitable for walking but new connections and some sections suitable for addressing of barriers No. Route Name & Type Description Existing/Proposed Reason for Inclusion Barriers on Route (currently identified) cycling. required.

15. Dunfermline to Predominantly off-road Existing Connects settlements along Kirkcaldy Cycleway from Cowdenbeath to the Ore Valley where large Kirkcaldy utilising the Fife scale housing development is core path network. planned.

16. Airdrie to Livingston Section of NCN75, off- Existing Off road and cross boundary road walking and cycling route. Mostly recreational but route, including path can support functional alongside Airdrie - journeys between settlements. Bathgate railway. Would connect to A71 strategic functional route at Livingston.

17. River Almond & Long distance recreational Mostly Existing. Long distance route through Breich Valley Trail walking route. Completed feasibility Green Network Priority Area. study by the Central Scotland Green Network Trust seeks to connect up several existing path stretches

18. Cross Borders Drove This long distance route Existing Long distance, cross boundary Road which promotes various recreational route. Great Trail. methods of active travel commences in Hawick, and passes through the settlements of Selkirk, Innerleithen, Peebles and West Linton in Scottish Borders. The route then continues through to East Calder, Livingston and Edinburgh thereby connecting a number of council authority areas. No. Route Name & Type Description Existing/Proposed Reason for Inclusion Barriers on Route (currently identified) 19. John Buchan Way to The John Buchan Way Existing and Proposed. Cross boundary long distance Clyde Walkway links Peebles, Stobo and New extension of the route. Clyde Walkway is a Broughton. Route is part John Buchan Way would Great Trail. on-road and part off road. link to the Clyde Walkway, and would provide a linkage between the Borders Strategic Green Network and the western part of the Central Scotland Green Network.

20. Southern Upland Way On and off road route Existing Cross Boundary Great Trail which passes through Scottish Borders from the west to the north-east. The route is popular with locals and tourists alike for both long and short distance journeys.

21. Borders Abbey Way The Borders Abbey Way Existing Great Trail is an attractive and scenic walking route which is both on and off road and also connects the main towns within the Central Borders.

22. St Cuthbert’s Way Melrose to Holy Island Existing Cross Boundary Great Trail long distance walking route. An attractive and scenic route which is both on and off road.

23. Penicuik to Peebles The path will connect with Proposed. Would use Cross boundary recreational the successful Peebles to former railway alignment. route. Innerleithen Path and will promote increased access No. Route Name & Type Description Existing/Proposed Reason for Inclusion Barriers on Route (currently identified) to Glentress. The proposed section of path will improve connectivity between Scottish Borders and Midlothian for walking and cycling.

24. Peebles to Kelso Multi Will primarily be Existing. Peebles to Will assist in connecting the Use Path constructed on the route Innerleithen west and central Borders of the former Peebles to towns as well as providing a Galashiels railway line. Proposed. Innerleithen to more sustainable route to the Kelso new railway stations at Galashiels and Tweedbank. Supports leisure walking and cycling along Tweed Valley. 25. River Tyne Path Recreational route along Existing (Dunbar to Long distance recreational the River Tyne from Haddington) path. Dunbar to Haddington via East Linton. It is proposed Proposed (Haddington to to extend that path to Vogrie Country Park Pencaitland with longer term aspirations to connect to Vogrie Country Park

26. River Esk Path Would run from the coast Existing & Proposed Cross boundary recreational at Musselburgh along the routes. Esk through to Midlothian with branches along the North to Penicuik and South Esk to Gorebridge.

27. Musselburgh - Mostly recreational active Existing Cross boundary recreational Penicuik travel route using sections route of NCN196 and NCN1.

Table 6 Main Issues Report Routes not Included in Proposed Plan

Number from Route Name Reason for Removal Table 1 (MIR) 1 North Sea Cycle Route & Trail Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 4 NCN1 Significant on-road sections, such as in the Borders. Some sections retained as part of other routes, e.g. Edinburgh to Dunfermline. 5 South East wedge – links between Duplication. Covered by sections of functional routes including Edinburgh Orbital, Gorebridge to Edinburgh, Midlothian , East Edinburgh and A1/A199. Lothian 8 Fife Coastal Path Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 9 Alloa to Kirkcaldy (NCN76) Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 10 A985 Active Travel Route Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 11 Halbeath to Kelty via Crossgates Local route 13 NCN76 Extension Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 15 A92 Active Travel Route Mostly outside SESplan Area. Duplicated as part of Glenrothes – Kirkcaldy Strategic Functional Route 16 Avon Heritage Trail Too short. Not cross boundary. 17 Bathgate Hills On road. 22 Bo’ness to Cramond Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 23 Edinburgh Waterfront Promenade Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 24 Cammo to Maybury Included as part of Edinburgh Orbital Strategic Functional Route 25 Water of Leith Path Local recreational route 33 Dunbar to Stranraer Replicates existing routes, including Southern Upland Way. 36 Berwickshire Coastal Path Included as part of SESplan Coastal Route 40 A6093 Route Duplicated by River Tyne Path 41 Ormirton to Prestonpans Local route 42 Pencaitland Railway Walk Local route 43 Gullane to Drem Local route 44 Haddington to Longniddry Railway Local route Path 47 Penicuik to Shawfair Duplicated by A701 route 51 Roslin Glen to Leadburn Local route

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