Visit Falkirk has launched a campaign to encourage tourism to the region following an investment of over £6m in cycle infrastructure.
The new campaign has been funded through the VisitScotland Destination Fund and work so far has included a new dedicated section on the VisitFalkirk.com website, interactive itineraries to inform and new online videos to inspire.
Falkirk Council has also approved planning for a new Callendar Park cycleway plus bike repair, storage and changing facilities.
Place for cycling
With over 500km of shared use paths ideal for a wide range of cycling abilities, the Falkirk region is fast becoming one of Scotland’s top cycling destinations and was the fastest growing sector in the immediate area pre-pandemic.
From 2009 to 2019, visitor numbers increased by 53% to around 950,000, employment in the sector by 31.4% to just over 2,200 jobs, and the overall economic benefit of tourism in the area increased to around £136m.
The new campaign has support from partners across central Scotland
From kid’s learner zones in Zetland and Helix Parks, 114 e-bikes with Forth Bikes, accessible cycling through local charity: Cycling Without Age, to adrenaline-fuelled distance and mountain bike options, there is genuinely something for everyone.
Launching the campaign, Falkirk Council Leader, Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn commented:
"Getting on your bike is even more popular in the Falkirk area since we’ve invested so much in our cycle paths and attractions.
"Investment from funds such as the VisitScotland Destination Fund is so welcome and we are on track to be one of Scotland’s most exciting and popular cycling destinations.
"With the UCI Cycling World Championships coming in 2023 we have a real opportunity to create a legacy that will bring more income to our region as well as support active tourism and the outdoor, healthy lifestyle."
Visit Falkirk
Visit Falkirk was launched by Falkirk Council in 2013 to promote the area as a tourist destination through investment and development of the former industrial areas.
The cycling campaign follows other successful tourism marketing campaigns to promote the area, with its award-winning path networks and outdoor green spaces and attractions.
Falkirk Council has invested over £6.15 million in upgrading its paths network since 2017, with over £500,000 into the e-bike network. Since it started, there have been more than 46,864 e-bike rides, the most popular station being the Helix, followed by the Falkirk Wheel.
In December 2021 Falkirk Council signed the Falkirk Growth Deal with the UK Government and the Scottish Government, which will bring £1bn investment and 2000 jobs to the area which will include net zero projects including a Central Sustainable Transport Hub, a canalside visitor centre and an outdoor art park.