Canals bring benefits all round

The economic value of Scotland’s canals is increasing, according to the latest figures, with the waterways proving to be a force for good economically – but also socially, reports Cicely Oliver.

INVESTMENT of £1.53 billion has been made on and around the canals in Scotland since the reopening of the Lowland waterways in 2002, according to a new economic study.

The report, by Peter Brett Associates (nowpartofStantec),trackstheeconomic performance of Scotland’s canals between January 2016 and June 2019. The results, illustrating how increased vibrancy on the canals creates jobs and attracts investment, were announced during the Marine Tourism symposium held at the Scottish Parliament in November.

Some 9000 houses, almost 8500 jobs and more than 9000 temporary construction jobs have resulted from investment in regeneration, tourism and infrastructure since 2010 across Scotland’s canal network.

The pace of change is accelerating, with a 250% increase in investment in the last three years compared to the previous period (2010-15).

The Caledonian and Crinan Canals benefited from £61.1 million investment between January 2016 and June 2019, a 176% increase on the previous period. The Lowland Forth & Clyde and Union canals saw an estimated £568 million worth of investment.

The report demonstrates the economic value of Scotland’s canals, which also bring other benefits less easily defined by pounds and pence.

It’s difficult to quantify the benefits to individuals, their families and communities, but it’s clear that the regeneration and continued well-being of the canals brings significant positive change at an individual level.