£1M Canal Project To Transform Bowling Basin Railway Arches
Disused railway arches are to be transformed into commercial units as part of a £1 million project to regenerate the gateway to a canal.
The development at Bowling Basin in West Dunbartonshire will also improve landscaping and access in the area.
Due for completion in early 2016, the scheme aims to create scenic viewpoints to make the most of the area's views over the River Clyde.
The development is part of the regeneration of the Forth & Clyde Canal's western gateway and is funded by the Coastal Communities Fund, Scottish Canals, West Dunbartonshire Council and Sustrans.
Scottish Canals chief executive Steve Dunlop said: "Bowling Basin played a vital role in the history of Scotland's canals and we're committed to ensuring it remains just as relevant in the future.
"Working with the local community and our partners at West Dunbartonshire Council, we've developed a shared vision to help safeguard Bowling's rich heritage and build for its future, and have already invested more than £1 million in the area.
"Thanks to the support of the Coastal Communities Fund and our partners, this project will drive forward the next stage of the regeneration of the area, bringing further investment, employment opportunities and vibrancy to Bowling, and developing a fantastic tourism and leisure destination fitting of the western gateway to the Forth & Clyde Canal.''
The work follows an earlier £1 million project undertaken last year which saw four of the arches of the historic Caledonian and Dunbartonshire Railway bridge brought back to life as business premises through funding from the Scottish Government.
Bowling, which sits on the northern bank of the Firth of Clyde and near the western terminus of the ancient Antonine Wall, was a major transport hub during the industrial revolution and was vital to the success of the River Clyde, the Forth & Clyde Canal and the Caledonian and Dunbartonshire Railway.
Councillor Patrick McGlinchey, convener for infrastructure, regeneration and economic development at West Dunbartonshire Council, said: "I'm delighted that the next stage of this project to regenerate Bowling Basin is now set to get under way.
"By creating these commercial units it will help to attract investment, create jobs and boost tourism in West Dunbartonshire.''