Communities across Argyll and Bute have shared how they are making small changes to the way they travel, where possible, when possible to make a big difference.
From cycling to school, walking to the shops, and even rowing across waters, local residents are discovering new ways to make shorter journeys without relying on their cars. These simple swaps can make a big difference to finances, health, and the environment. Argyll and Bute Council is encouraging even more people to make a better journey where they can.
With over 60% of short trips—under 1 to 2 miles—still being made by car, the council is challenging residents to rethink just one small journey a week.
Celebrating Our Winners
To encourage more people to make small changes, the council launched a summer photo competition, asking people to share snapshots of their "better journeys."
Congratulations to Mairi Queen from Helensburgh, who has won first prize of a £50 Argyll and Bute gift card for capturing her morning cycle to nursery with children Eilidh and Dougie.
Speaking about her better journey, Mairi said:
“Travelling by bike with the kids makes an event out of our daily journeys, and gives us time to look at, and talk about our beautiful surroundings here in Helensburgh - both kids love it!’
Runners up prizes of two £25 Argyll and Bute gift cards go to -
Craig MacKellar from the Lorn Coastal Rowing Club for his photo of members rowing under the Connel Bridge. The group based at Dunstaffnage Marina, near Oban regularly meet to row at least five kilometres. New members are always welcome.
Julia Barr from Cove shared a picture of her son William, taking a well-earned rest at Rosneath Church as part of a charity event, cycling from Cove to Rhu.
Councillor John Armour, Policy Lead for Roads and Infrastructure:
“Thanks to everyone who entered our competition and congratulations to Mairi and our runners up. It’s great to see so many people already making better journeys and taking in the stunning scenery we have here in Argyll and Bute.
We hope this inspires even more residents to rethink their travel habits, even if it’s just for one journey a week. Small changes add up and can bring tremendous benefits to our health, community, and environment.
"With air pollution remaining as the largest environmental threat to health in the UK, working together we can help create a climate-friendly Argyll and Bute and make a positive difference for generations to come.”
Free active travel apps
As part of the Better Journeys campaign, Argyll and Bute Council is also promoting a range of free active travel apps to help residents discover new walking and cycling routes. The apps feature:
- Maps of local routes
- Fun facts about landmarks
- Interactive family quizzes
They include:
For more information about better journeys visit https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/better-journeys
Transport Scotland through the Smarter Choices, Smarter Places (SCSP) with Argyll and Bute Council funds the Better Journeys campaign.