Share Space Project - Rural Walking and Cycling Routes

The demand for safe, comfortable places to walk, cycle and wheel continues to grow as more people choose active and sustainable ways to travel. Aberdeenshire Council is committed to supporting this shift by encouraging long‑term behaviour change that benefits both individuals and communities.

The Share Space – Rural Walking and Cycling Routes project was initiated in 2022 with a trial to help make this change possible. The project aims to promote selected rural minor roads as more welcoming, people‑friendly routes for all users. Aberdeenshire has an extensive network of country roads where traffic volumes and speeds are generally low, making them suitable for promoting walking, cycling and horse riding as attractive travel options.

Aberdeenshire Council is now carrying out a follow‑up survey to gather public reactions and comments to the small number of trial locations. This feedback will help evaluate the project’s impact and determine whether the initiative should be replicated in further locations.

The project complements other initiatives already underway in these areas, helping to link villages, improve access to public paths and support wider community aspirations.