Delivery of a waterfront path linking the town centre with Dumbarton Rock and Castle is a long-term ambition for the local community and the Council. It was one of the main projects originating from the 2015 Rock & Castle Charrette.
Part of the waterfront path has been constructed, running from Riverside Lane eastwards along the edge of the River Leven to the head of the basin next to the Lidl supermarket. This section was completed in 2021 when the sites were being redeveloped by Dunbritton Housing Association and Lidl. The respective landowners had an obligation to fund 70% of the path costs, with the Council contributing 30%. The remainder of the path will run southwards towards the Rock and Castle traversing land owned Turnberry Homes and Dumbarton Football Club. Development of these sections are dependent on the landowners.
The path provides an attractive walking and cycling route along the River Leven. It has been constructed using high quality materials. It includes guard rails and wave walls where required, plus lighting, seating and interpretation. The remaining section of the path will be built to the same specification.
When fully complete, the path will become a major asset to Dumbarton, and an attractive active travel route for both residents and visitors. It will form part of the Arc of Attractions connecting the Castle, the Scottish Maritime Museum and the new library and museum at Glencairn House, as well as of the wider Rock to Railway connectivity ambition, linking further with the redeveloped Artizan Centre and the historic Dumbarton Central Station.
Together with Historic Environment Scotland and the Scottish Maritime Museum, Regeneration have established a Visitor Gateway Partnership to ensure that we work collaboratively to maximise the tourist potential of the path and of Dumbarton.