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IT is hoped the money, which will enhance cycling infrastructure over the next two years, will encourage tourists, commuters and schoolchildren to cycle more.

The £3.9 million cash boost is part of a £21 million investment in transport announced by the Scottish Government and will also be used to increase parking for bikes at schools.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "As we enter 2013 and more people think about taking up cycling with the fitness, financial and environmental benefits that brings, I am pleased to be able to announce this funding to help improve cycling infrastructure for tourists, commuters and schoolchildren in areas throughout Scotland.

"In the Highlands and Argyll and Bute we are committing £3 million to fast-track the National Cycle Network route 78 between Oban and Inverness.

"The £2.6 million Connon Ferry to Inverness section will be managed by Transport Scotland in partnership with Highland Council and will deliver much-needed safe cycle routes linking remote communities and taking cyclists off the trunk road network by 2015.

"The Great Glen cycle path will be an iconic route which will boost the local economy through the additional tourism in an area which already attracts over 20,000 spectators to the World Mountain Bike Championship each year in Fort William."

He said £400,000 will go to the Oban to Appin cycle route and an extra £500,000 will improve access to stations on the Airdrie to Bathgate railway.

A further £400,000 is being spent on increasing cycle parking at schools to encourage more pupils to cycle.

The funding forms part of a £205 million programme of capital projects announced by Finance Secretary John Swinney on December 19.



