Helensburgh in Motion

Project objectives

The Helensburgh Waterfront redevelopment has seen the creation of a new, improved leisure centre in the heart of Helensburgh, coupled with improved public realm, including the first section of kerb-segregated cycleway in the area. The objective of Helensburgh in Motion is to produce options and concept designs that expand this growing active travel network and make it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle to destinations in Helensburgh, such as schools and community facilities.

An Overview

The proposals aim to improve links Helensburgh Town Centre to Hermitage Academy. The ambition is to focus improvements along East Clyde Street, and up Sinclair Street as the most direct and flat terrain route. We have highlighted 3 focus zones which we believe are key to making this route successful.

Focus Zone 1 - East Clyde St. Town Centre

Feedback we received during the first round of consultation suggested that people did not feel safe using East Clyde Street for active travel in it’s current form. Research has also identified a number of accidents that have happened in the area.

The existing road width (viewable below) is rather generous, with a parking abundance. The initial proposals suggest reducing sections of parking to allow for a bi-directional cycle route whilst retaining a generous pavement width. Segregating cyclists from road traffic will improve users safety and a reduction in parked vehicles will allow for more visibility at junctions.

Focus Zone 2 - East Clyde St. Bridge

The bridge over the rail line on East Clyde Street has been identified as a particularly difficult area for active travel users. It also presents unique challenges with it’s limited width (sections available below)

The initial proposals suggest merging the bi-directional cycle lane into a shared surface. This will require widening of sections of the footpath. This will also reduce the need for users to cross the road, where a particularly difficult junction with South King St. has been noted.

Focus Zone 3 - Hermitage Academy

The dual lane roads prove particularly difficult to navigate for walkers and cyclists. Being so close to the school has seen a number of incidents happen here, resulting in the school implementing road monitoring to ensure pupils can cross safely.

Providing a bi-direction cycle path that links directly into the Morrisons area gives a wider zone for active travel users that is separated from the busy road.

Before putting pen to paper, it’s our goal to reach everyone in Helensburgh, regardless of age or situation, and find out what they think. To do this, we need the help of local people and organisations to spread the word, and rally their members, friends, and families to get involved.

If you require any further information on the project, please do not hesitate to contact Page\Park Architects at:

Email: helensburghconsultation@pagepark.co.uk

Telephone: 0141 553 5440