A unique new £12.9 million campus dedicated to traditional skills training is set to be considered by Falkirk councillors next month (December).

The Lock 16: Scotland's Centre of Excellence for Canals and Traditional Skills project proposes transforming the former AG Barr site in Camelon into a national hub for heritage conservation and volunteering.

The project is a flagship initiative within the £148.7 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal and is estimated to generate £44.5 million of economic value over the next 10 years.

At a meeting on Thursday 4 December 2025, the Executive will be asked to agree the submission of the project's Full Business Case (FBC) to the UK and Scottish Governments for final review.

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Skills and Economic Impact

Lock 16 will serve as a shared base for Scottish Canals and Historic Environment Scotland, focusing on maintaining Scotland's canal and built heritage. The centre is projected to deliver significant skills outcomes:

• 20 additional jobs created through related activity.

• 15 Modern Apprenticeships in stonemasonry.

• 5 Modern Apprenticeships in rural skills.

• 30 Diplomas in Asset Conservation and 50 qualifications in traditional building maintenance.

• Over 1,100 volunteering opportunities.

Paul Kettrick, Head of Investments, Assets and Climate, stated that Lock 16 "represents exactly the kind of long-term, sustainable investment the Growth Deal was designed to deliver."

Funding for the project includes £4 million from the Growth Deal, £3.7 million from Scottish Canals, and further contributions from Historic Environment Scotland, the Scottish Government's Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Once the FBC is approved by both governments, the Council will enter a funding agreement to allow the regeneration work to progress.