SCOTLAND's canal network is to be transformed by a multimillion pound programme designed to revitalise inland waterways.
The Scottish Executive yesterday announced GBP3m of funding which will help British Waterways Scotland regenerate its once-neglected 137-mile network of five canals.
The money will help secure improvements including the stabilisation of locks on the Caledonian canal; a major renovation scheme of Ardrishaig swing bridge, on the Crinan canal; and the creation of an outdoor activity centre on the Union canal at Falkirk.
The nation's waterways attracted more than 15 million visitors over the past year, and British Waterways Scotland believes the windfall will further reinvigorate the Caledonian, Crinan, Forth and Clyde, Union and Monklands canals.
Campbell Christie, chairman, said the move would help the waterways boost the leisure and tourism industries.
He said: "There is still much work to be done to realise the full benefits of Scotland's canal network, but if we continue to build our working relationships with the executive and our other partners we can create a world-class resource."
Tony Hales, chairman of British Waterways, added:
"Scotland's canals have seen a huge transformation over the past few years and there is no doubt that strong partnership working has been the key to this ongoing revitalisation."
As part of British Waterways' 15-year strategy for the Forth and Clyde canal, two of Glasgow's most historic canalside locations, at Port Dundas and Spiers Wharf, will once again be linked after a break of four decades.
The GBP100m project will also regenerate the city's banks, establishing a wharfside community of housing, pubs, restaurants and green spaces.
With the new programme of work in place, British Waterways hopes the canal network will become largely selfsufficient. It aims to double the number of people using Scotland's waterways by 2012.
Announcing the GBP3m investment, Tavish Scott, transport minister, said: "Scotland's canals make a major contribution to the regeneration of many areas. Investment in our canal network benefits the local economy and our tourist industry.
"British Waterways are transforming and regenerating our waterways by providing improved facilities throughout the country. This funding will help them deliver more benefits to the many people who enjoy our canals and their local communities."
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