Multi-million pound Arbroath 'Place for Everyone' project officially opened
The completion and opening of a major multi-million pound regenerative project in Arbroath has been officially marked by Angus Council.
The ‘Arbroath A Place for Everyone’ initiative designed to reconnect the town centre, transport links, tourism destinations and coastline through improved walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure.
Years in the making, the project was shaped by extensive public consultation beginning in 2015.
Feedback from the community identified the former dual carriageway as a significant physical barrier between the High Street, public transport hubs and the seafront, negatively impacting accessibility, footfall and civic pride.
In July 2019, the Scottish Government confirmed funding support for the project through the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust’s (former Sustrans) ‘Places for Everyone’ programme.
The initiative became one of the most ambitious projects funded through the scheme, with Arbroath becoming the first Scottish town to receive the programme’s highest level of funding.
Cllr Tommy Stewart, communities convener, said: “The project aligns closely with Angus Council and Scottish Government priorities, including tackling climate change, promoting health and well-being, improving accessibility, supporting tourism and strengthening town centre regeneration.
“In addition to its long-term social and environmental benefits, the project provided a significant economic boost, contributing more than £5.6 million to the local economy and supporting local businesses and suppliers throughout delivery.”
Stephen Flynn, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport said: “These improvements are already making a real difference to how people move around the town, while also supporting a more attractive and accessible town centre that benefits local businesses and communities.
“With over £10 million of Scottish Government funding as part of a wider £15 million investment, this work demonstrates how sustained investment can transform places and improve everyday journeys for people across Scotland.”