Glasgow City Council will upgrade Cathkin Braes bike trails with funds from housing developers, enhancing facilities for cyclists.
Glasgow: Housing developers are giving cash to the city council. This money will upgrade the Cathkin Braes mountain bike trails.
New toilets and bike storage will be added. This is part of a plan to improve cycling facilities after major events in the city.
Councillors approved the investment on Thursday. A report called it the “missing piece” for mountain biking in the park.
Cllr Ruairi Kelly said the project will make the trails more attractive for everyone. This includes individuals, clubs, and schools.
This upgrade is just the first phase of a bigger plan for Cathkin Braes. Future plans may include a cafe.
The initial work will cost about £118,000. The council will use £74,250 from housing developers to help cover costs.
Another £59,400 will come from a grant for cycling facilities. An extra £14,850 will be set aside for maintenance over ten years.
Cathkin Braes has several mountain bike trails and a beginner-friendly pump track. New bike storage, compostable toilets, and paths will be built.
They may also use solar or battery power to avoid needing utility connections.
Cllr Kelly noted that the lack of infrastructure has been a long-standing issue for community use of the trails.
The cycling facilities fund, managed by sportscotland, has made this funding possible.
Future improvements could include changing areas and a bike wash. This will help clubs and groups grow the sport.
The council is looking for a sustainable way to operate the hub. They are in talks with potential partners.
Glasgow has hosted major events like the Commonwealth Games and the UCI Cycling World Championships. They are also preparing for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Cllr Kelly’s report highlighted the link between major events and increased grassroots participation. More people have taken up cycling in Glasgow over the last decade.
Investing in the mountain bike trails aims to keep this growth going.
