Creative Intervention: Stranraer

What’s Happening in Stranraer?

The ambition is to create a locally grounded active travel programme centred on The Unexpected Garden and the Stranraer waterfront — one that activates existing community energy, strengthens local networks, and supports long-term aspirations for cycling, mobility, green routes and ecological engagement.

The project aims to:

• Normalise active travel by connecting it with food, nature, creativity and community
• Challenge stigma around cycling by showcasing inclusive, everyday, family and youth-friendly participation
• Strengthen the bridge between recreational cycling and commuting or daily transport
• Reactivate dormant ideas around bike access (use and repair), pump tracks and youth cycling groups
• Create visible public moments that inspire behavioural change
• Build foundations for future funding, infrastructure and long-term mobility ambitions

The programme hopes to further conversation around:

• A proposed mobility hub and potential train station relocation
• Intergenerational access to cycling infrastructure, including hire, loan, ownership and repair
• Strengthening green routes around the waterfront and connecting neighbourhoods
• Growing interest from local young people in eco-activities, cycling and nature-based action
• A coastline rich in foraging, marine life and environmental stories
• Existing community enthusiasm for inclusive cycling and socially led mobility ideas

Planned Creative Outputs

Outputs are focused on co-creation and community engagement. Potential programme elements may include:

• Micro-walks and walking tours centred on foraging, coastline ecology, food or local history
• Bike-based activities including short social rides, introductory events or repair and skills sessions
• Foraging bike tours connecting food, place and movement
• Treasure-style trails using painted rocks, seeds, landmarks or points of interest
• Cargo bike outreach, using The Stove’s electric cargo bike for community engagement
• Creative events such as graffitied bike tags, storytelling stops or pedal-powered energy demonstrations
• Collaborative sessions with local schools, youth groups and volunteers