West Dunbartonshire named least recommended area for walking

According to the 2025 Scottish Walking and Wheeling Survey, just 51% of residents said they walk or wheel daily, compared to 57% across the country.

A net promoter score of -43 also placed the area at the bottom of the national rankings, reflecting widespread reluctance among residents to recommend it as a good place for everyday walking and wheeling.

The findings highlight growing concerns over pavement conditions, safety, and general accessibility.

Kevin Lafferty, chief executive officer at Walking Scotland, said: "These figures show that many people in West Dunbartonshire face barriers that stop them from walking and wheeling.

"This matters, because walking is one of the best things we can do for our health, our community, and our planet.

"It has so many health, social, and economic benefits."

Just 38% of those surveyed rated West Dunbartonshire as safe for walking or wheeling alone during the day, with this figure dropping to 33% after dark.

Infrastructure was a common complaint, with only 19% of respondents believing that pavements were in good condition and well managed.

Parking on pavements was reported by 71% of residents, while 60% cited littering as a regular issue.

Residents said they wanted "better quality pavements and paths" and "better lighting" to make walking more appealing and safer.

Improved pavements and paths were the top suggestion for encouraging more walking or wheeling, followed by improved safety after dark, and better lighting along routes.

Kevin said: "There’s a real opportunity here to support West Dunbartonshire residents.

"Data shows that where paths and local environments are safe and accessible, people will choose to walk and wheel more often.

"We want to make this the easy choice for everyone."

The Scottish Walking and Wheeling Survey was carried out by research agency 56 Degree Insight on behalf of Walking Scotland.

Fieldwork took place from June 16 to July 7, 2025, and included responses from 2,009 adults across Scotland.

The report arrives during National Walking Month, which runs throughout May and aims to inspire more people to walk or wheel regularly.

Walking Scotland is marking the campaign by sharing ideas and resources to help people get moving, no matter where they live.

The charity works across communities, schools, and workplaces to make walking and wheeling a normal part of everyday life.