Scottish Ministers to control own canals
British Waterways Scotland is to become known as Scottish Canals, with Scottish Ministers gaining more control over its operation.
Recent changes in UK legislation mean British Waterways has become wholly Scottish, while in England and Wales responsibility for canals and waterways transfers out of the public sector to a new charitable trust.
Welcoming the change, Transport Minister Keith Brown said, “These changes allow us to appoint a board much closer to Scotland’s canal users and to our purpose of creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth.
“We look forward to supporting the new board as they continue the good work that has seen our waterways transformed over the last 15 years, the most dramatic being the Millennium Link and the construction of the Falkirk Wheel, which celebrates its tenth birthday this year.”
The Scottish Government has worked closely with the UK Government throughout the transition process to ensure common issues, such as the separation of assets, were addressed amicably. This has ensured British Waterways Scottish operations continues to operate in the public sector by becoming a self-standing body.
Scottish Canals is expected to continue to work in partnership with public, private and third sector organisations to develop the country’s canals.
Recent initiatives include the launch of the Great Glen Canoe Trail, Scotland’s first formal canoe trail and the ongoing Helix project which will not only improve access to the Forth & Clyde Canal at the River Carron but also regenerate green belt between the Falkirk and Grangemouth communities.
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