A group hoping to make a Glasgow community the 'most accessible in Scotland' is one step closer to their goal after receiving a major funding boost.

The Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Cycling Village, a project set up by the area's community council, were awarded a £6.5m grant from Sustrans Scotland to transform the area.

They hope to implement vehicle restrictions on main routes, create extra pedestrian crossings, segregated cycle lanes, street art and landscaping to radically change the area for cyclists and pedestrians.

And now with Sustrans help as part of their Places for Everyone initiative, the project has come even closer to their long-term goal.

READ MORE: Ambitious plan to create Glasgow's first cycling village moves forward

It is the first time in Scotland that a community group has approached transport charity funder Sustrans for such a proposal, rather than a council.

Glasgow City Council has matched the funding given to the group, boosting their total to approximately £13m.

Transport minister Michael Matheson announced the funding on Wednesday, which will see four other Scottish projects receive the boost.

Speaking in Perth, Mr Matheson said: “The National Transport Strategy sets a clear direction for a future where we have a sustainable, inclusive and accessible transport system that helps deliver a healthier, fairer and more prosperous Scotland.

Glasgow Times:

“We know cycling, walking, use of public transport and shared transport options all need to be more affordable, accessible and attractive if we are to make this vision a reality.

"The Strategy is being launched alongside the allocation of £60 million for five new active travel projects, underlining the importance of sustainable transport and the added benefits that it can bring.”

READ MORE: Yorkhill and Kelvingrove community council wants area to be cycle friendly

Wendy Shaw, chair of Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council said, “We are incredibly proud that we have been successful. All the dedication and hard work of our volunteers has paid off. To be the first community led bid has been an experience and we have all learnt so much, it's not been easy but our success shows what can be achieved by a community working together.

“Following this announcement our team of volunteers is energised to work with local residents, housing associations and businesses to create a detailed plan. We would encourage all those who live or work within Yorkhill, Kelvingrove and Finnieston to share their thoughts and needs to help us create a community fit for the 21st Century.”

Andy Waddell, director of operations for neighbourhoods and sustainability at Glasgow City Council said: “This is absolutely fantastic news for Glasgow.

“The award of £25m is a massive endorsement of our vision of Glasgow as a cycling city where cycling is a safe and attractive mode of transport for all.

“A huge amount of credit must go to Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council for their determination in ensuring their community is a fully-fledged part of the work to transform cycling in Glasgow.

READ MORE: Sunday Times dubs Finnieston one of best places to live in Scotland

“The plans for the Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Cycling Village have been developed by the community for the community and will support the residents’ ambitions for safer and greener streets.

“But the YoKeCoCo cycling village will also create vital links between national cycle routes, making it much easier for people who cycle to get around the city as a whole.

“Our Avenues plan will make the city centre more accessible by bike and step by step the vision of an increasingly connected cycling network in Glasgow is being realised.”