More than £1.6 million has been awarded by Transport Scotland towards repairing bridges over the Forth and Clyde Canal.

The grant aid will enable Scottish Canals to fix the structures and reopen the stretch of water to boats, as well as carrying out repairs to Ardrishaig Pier in Argyll and Bute.

A recent motion calling for a meeting between East Dunbartonshire Council, Scottish Canals and Transport Scotland to clarify the impact of canal closures locally was backed by local councillors.

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Concerns were raised that ongoing bridge issues meant the canal could not be used to its full potential by locals and visitors to the area.

Cllr Billy Hendry welcomed the funding announcement.

"This is great news and follows strenuous calls for action from elected members at East Dunbartonshire Council," he said.

"Once again canal-users will soon be able to travel by boat between Kirkintilloch – Scotland's canal capital – and The Falkirk Wheel.

"It's essential that investment continues into resources such as the Forth and Clyde Canal to ensure they remain viable, accessible and attractive for all."

(LM)