Community groups are being encouraged to apply for a share of a new £1.5m fund to improve their local path networks.

The Ian Findlay Path Fund is open for applications from community groups, third sector organisations and charities who want to improve existing pathways in their area.

Overseen by walking charity Paths for All, the funding will help support path management projects that enable more people to walk, wheel, or cycle for everyday journeys.

It is hoped that by making community links more accessible, the fund will inspire people to leave the car at home for everyday journeys, improving air quality and enhancing physical and mental wellbeing.

READ MORE: Fire breaks out at Glasgow's Darnley Primary School

Glasgow organisations that apply will be eligible for between £10,000 to £100,000 which can go towards bettering pathway links between homes, community services, active travel routes, and public transport facilities.

The fund can support removing barriers, steps, ramps or vegetation, filling in gaps to connect paths, tackling pathway flooding, increasing climate change resilience, improving safety by adding lighting, and improving and upgrading sight lines.

Improving pathways allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy them.

Rona Gibb, senior manager at Paths for All, said: “I would encourage community groups, development trusts and charities to think about the paths in their communities that people use for everyday short journeys that need improving to apply to our new Ian Findlay Path Fund.

READ MORE: Cameron House Hotel workers in protest over tip system leaving them out of pocket

“Communities know the desire lines, muddy tracks, pot holed steps or chicanes that are stopping people from easily walking, wheeling or cycling for their short journeys.

“If you know of paths that need to be made accessible for people using wheelchairs, walking aids or adaptive cycles then get in touch.

“Scotland needs more attractive paths to make short journeys easy and enjoyable. We want local path networks to be part of the way people travel.”

The fund officially opened at Castlemilk Park which is managed by the Cassiltoun Housing Association.

READ MORE:Golf It! to open in Glasgow after Lethamhill golf course redevelopment

Officially opening the fund, Patrick Harvie, minister for zero carbon buildings, active travel and tenants’ rights at Transport Scotland, said: “The fund is a fitting tribute to Ian’s work as a lifelong champion for walking and continues his mission during his time as chief officer at Paths for All.”

Clair Malpas, group chief executive at Cassiltoun Housing Association, added: “Funding is crucial to support all our work improving community facilities.

“Therefore, we greatly welcome the new £1.5m Ian Findlay Path Fund that could support our ongoing efforts to make the woodlands and surrounding areas of Castlemilk Park more attractive for residents of all ages, abilities and nationalities to feel safe and supported when walking in and around the area.

“Our previous funding from Paths for All involved volunteers informing where signage needed to be installed and what the signage should say, for example Miller Primary 0.2km, Jeely Piece Club 0.5km and Youth Complex 0.3km and even working with us to help install the posts and signs.

“Consulting with and encouraging the active participation of the community in developing the woodlands has been a central component of our work.”

“We know residents want to see improved lighting across several routes to increase safety, especially in winter and at night. This would be a major step forward in delivering a safe and accessible walking network in Castlemilk.”