Feedback on the Forth & Clyde Canal Action Plan

In the last week, I have provided comments on the proposed action plan for the Forth & Clyde Canal.

In reviewing the vision, I believe that the importance of the canal corridor as a heritage asset should be incorporated as part of the statement. The themes include “quality” and there is consideration given to place and design. There is a need to recognise the distinct identity of the Forth and Clyde Canal as a scheduled monument which has been given legal protection under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Reference can be made to the vision of the heritage strategy of Scottish Canals 2013-38.

The impact of climate change on the canal should be considered as part of the future vision. It is essential that within the section on “focus”, there is a reference to key issues including:

• protecting structures from more severe weather events and sea level rise.
• ensuring sustainability of water supplies in the long-term.
  
• positive opportunities for the canal to contribute to protecting biodiversity from changes in climate by providing a network of green corridors across Glasgow.
• through reducing energy use and improving energy efficiency of operations and supply-chain.
  
• by offering and promoting 'low-carbon' leisure and recreation opportunities.

In the section, "Connectivity & Movement", there is reference to “Roads” and an indication of a key issue being “the ability of these radial routes to accommodate further traffic from future housing development”. The environmental impact of road building should be acknowledged as a key issue for the canal’s regeneration. The roads have implications for noise, water pollution, habitat destruction/disturbance and local air quality; and the wider effects linked to climate change from vehicle emissions. The action plan has to provide a informed view of how roads impact on residents including community cohesion, public health, and accessibility. The emphasis should be on investment in improving routes for cycling, and walking. 

With reference to Speirs Locks, there are a list of proposed actions to be welcomed. Improving security along the towpath across Speirs Locks is required in response to concerns of residents. As you may be aware, there has been a request for additional security measures from a resident who has lost two friends, as they drowned in the canal. It is essential that the further loss of life is minimised. Measures needed as part of the action plan include installation of new fencing, warning signs and lighting around the Forth and Clyde canal. Along the canal at Speirs Locks, there are sections with no barriers in place between the canal and the pathway.

Barriers are discontinued opposite Speirs Wharf.

Further updates on the development of proposals for the Forth and Clyde Canal will be provided at their website: http://www.scottishcanals.co.uk