The Scottish Government has announced an additional £8.2 million in funding for Scottish Canals for 2020-2021.

The news, which sees an increase in total grant funding from £15m to £23.2m, will support the conservation of Scotland's network of inland waterways and ensure that regeneration and sustainability work continues at pace.

Scottish Canals has undertaken various large-scale projects to support Scotland's canals in the previous year. These include a £3 million investment in lock gate replacement works in the Highlands, £1.1 million to fully re-open the Union Canal at Linlithgow and an £820,000 investment in upgrades to The Falkirk Wheel. A new three-year Corporate Plan is due to be published in time for the new financial year, which will outline Scottish Canals strategic priorities and vision for the future.

Catherine Topley, Chief Executive at Scottish Canals, said: "I'm delighted that the Scottish Government has expressed its continued dedication to the work we do to maintain these living monuments. From the majestic Caledonian Canal and the beautiful Crinan to the popular boating and tourist destinations along the Lowland Canals, these 250-year old heritage assets have a lot to offer the people of Scotland. We are very aware that we operate in a climate of restrained economic activity. We will work to demonstrate the many social and economic benefits that continued investment in our canals bring to everyone who lives and visits here, and are keen to work in partnership to ensure that we deliver maximum impact.

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"Looking to the future and the uncertainty of climate change, our canals have an important role to play in supporting sustainable travel, flood management, and access to green space for our urban communities. This additional funding demonstrates continued confidence in Scottish Canals' ability to create innovative solutions for the future. I'm excited to be at the helm of what is sure to be a period of continued transformation and success."

Regeneration work in areas as diverse as North Glasgow, Bowling Harbour and Ardrishaig has also brought new opportunities and services to canal-side communities, while tourist destination development and canal maintenance operations have ensured the waterways remain a vibrant place of activity for all and boosted the Scottish economy.

Andrew Thin, Scottish Canals Chairman, added: "It's been an incredibly busy year for Scottish Canals and we're immensely proud to see our hard work recognised, particularly at a time of limited resources. A priority for us will continue to be building on the partnerships we have across the public, private and third sectors. We want to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to get involved in what we do. These canals benefit everyone – from the towpath users and boaters who enjoy health and wellbeing benefits from being close to nature, to the thriving businesses that contribute to and benefit from the vibrancy of the waterways. It's only by working together and sharing our ideas about the future of the canals that they will continue to be cherished and protected for generations to come."

(MH/JG)