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In response to years of road safety concerns, the new route replaces a dangerous stretch of the B8020 with a safe, accessible off-road connection to the wider Winchburgh path network.
Children can now walk or wheel to school without using a busy road, and the wide, flat surface is suitable for wheelchairs, buggies and bikes.
The path is one of 62 community-led projects funded by the IFPF since 2022, a fund supported by Transport Scotland and administered by Walking Scotland that has invested £5.1 million in active travel infrastructure across 16 council areas.
The fund was established in memory of Ian Findlay CBE, our former Chief Executive Officer, who spent his career championing accessible paths and everyday walking as the foundation of healthier, more connected communities.
“This path was always about our community and making life easier and safer for local people. Before it was built, residents had to walk along the B8020 with heavy traffic and there was no safe route connecting us to Winchburgh. Now children can walk or cycle to school safely, families are out using the path together and people are enjoying being able to spend time outdoors away from traffic and noise. It has quickly become part of daily life here in Newton.” Julie Brechin, Secretary of Newton Community Council
Julie Brechin, Secretary of Newton Community Council
“We’re so pleased to see the impact this path has already had for local people. The Ian Findlay Path Fund has left a legacy that communities across Scotland will benefit from for generations. It has strengthened community connections and created safer routes and more vibrant places. We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved in Ian’s name.” Kevin, our Chief Executive Officer
Kevin, our Chief Executive Officer
The route combines existing historic paths with new sections to provide a new route and was designed to be accessible for everyone. Benches and picnic areas along the route have also created new spaces for residents to meet, walk and spend time together outdoors.
Julie continued: “What has been lovely to see is how many different people are using the path already. Young families, older residents, walkers and cyclists are all making use of it every day.
“It is not about attracting visitors from far away. This is a path built by the community, for the community. It is about helping local people stay active, connected and independent.”
The project moved quickly from planning to completion after funding was secured through the Ian Findlay Path Fund, with Walking Scotland providing support and technical guidance.
Planning permission was granted in November and construction began in January, with work completed on schedule through collaboration between Walking Scotland, Newton Community Council, Hopetoun Estates, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, environmental consultancy Ironside Farrar and civil engineering specialists Covanburn Contracts.
The route is also expected to support local businesses, with the village shop, garage and pub likely to benefit from increased footfall as more people travel between Newton and neighbouring communities on foot or by bike.
Published: 28 May 2026
