Work on enhancing active travel routes to one of Ayrshire's most popular destinations is set to begin next month, according to a nearby councillor.

Infrastructure consulting firm AECOM has been commissioned by Ayrshire Road Alliance (ARA) to deliver a high-quality and inclusive active travel route through the Doon Valley between Ayr Hospital and Loch Doon.

Consultation sessions took place last year for residents and visitors on Loch Doon to have their say on what they'd like to see included in the plans.

The Doon Valley Trail aims to transform how people walk, wheel and cycle by providing an accessible, dedicated facility for all journeys to better connect local communities across the Doon Valley area whilst showcasing the surrounding landscape and its heritage.

Cumnock Chronicle: Loch Doon.Loch Doon. (Image: Tony Shaw @ Cumnock Chronicle Camera Club)

According to Doon Valley councillor Drew Filson, the first stage of the plans is set to begin on Monday, February 5.

This section is set to include improvements to the old railway line trail beginning at Dalmellington.

Walkers are being asked to avoid this area for the duration of this section of the works, which is set to last until April.

The project is being funded and supported by South Ayrshire Council, East Ayrshire Council, Sustrans, Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) and the Coalfield Communities Landscape Partnership (CCLP).

More information about the plans can be found on the Doon Valley Trail website.