Residents in Crieff and Comrie have overwhelmingly backed proposed improvements to the path network between the two communities.
The path follows the route of the old railway line but is only accessible to “fit and determined walkers”.
An upgraded path would provide a safe, off-road route between Crieff and Comrie, which would be fully accessible to walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities.
A survey earlier this year revealed that there is significant widespread support for improvements.
It attracted more than 1,300 responses, with two-thirds of respondents from the local area and the rest from around the UK and abroad.
Crieff Community Trust, which commissioned the survey, found that 96% were in favour of the development, with most keen to use the path for leisure purposes.
Almost a third, however, said they would be able to use an improved path as a means of commuting to work or school or for shopping in the neighbouring community.
Importantly, many people highlighted safety as the key reason for their support, believing that roads in the area are “far too dangerous” for walkers and cyclists.
One respondent described the development of the path as “a potential lifesaver”.
At the same time, an improved traffic-free link between the two communities was seen as benefiting tourism and businesses, while health and environmental considerations were also important for many.
Just 3% of respondents opposed the plan, commenting that it would cause problems for farmers, would be unsafe and that there was “no demand” for the work and it was, therefore, a “waste of public funds”.
The trust will use the survey findings to inform its efforts to improve the path and as a lever to secure funding for future works.
A spokesperson said: “The findings of this survey demonstrate that there is very strong support, both among local people and visitors to Strathearn, for improving the designated core path between Crieff and Comrie.
“The consultation we did last year in developing the Crieff Community Action Plan clearly showed that people in Crieff wanted this path to be upgraded and this survey shows that residents in Comrie and other communities across Strathearn also want the path upgraded.
“The findings will help to support the efforts of Perth and Kinross Council as it negotiates with landowners to bring about the necessary improvements and to secure funding so that this important project can be taken forward as soon as possible.”