NEGLECTED Maryhill could soon become home to a world-class watersports
venue.
Regeneration chiefs have put forward an ambitious £6million plan to
transform a rundown stretch of the Forth and Clyde Canal into an
adventure canoeing centre.
The plan would involve creating a series of drops around Maryhill Locks -
modelled on locations such as Glen Etive, considered the finest canoeing
river in Scotland. It would run from the north side of Maryhill Locks to the
Kelvin Aqueduct.
Plans are also on course to create a watersports arena further along the
canal at Port Dundas.
It could be used to host international water polo events and would also
include a cafe, gymnasium and other leisure facilities.
Brian McGraw, who is heading up the project for Glasgow City Council,
said: "We had always been clear Maryhill Locks is a fantastic destination
in terms of its West End locality.
"The canal has suffered from four decades of neglect. It is about coming
up with something that engages the local community and changes their
perception of the canal.
"We want to deliver something that offers sporting activities, as well as
leisure opportunities for the local community.
"The Urban Etive project and the paddle sports centre could pave the way
for a major sport and leisure strategy for the north of Glasgow."
Historic Scotland and the police have given their backing to both plans, as
well as a number of the city's colleges.
Strathclyde Fire Service says the centre could also be used for
emergency drills.
British Waterways, which maintains the canal, hopes the plan will help
attract more young people and canoeing enthusiasts from across the UK
into the area.
The proposal is part of the ongoing regeneration of the Forth and Clyde
Canal.
James H _________________ The blinding obvious is what you showed to me.....
REGENERATION of Glasgow's canalside communities is set to play a major
part in transforming the north of the city.
Councillors were today discussing how the developments along the Forth
and Clyde Canal fit into long-term city plans. They will be focusing, in
particular, on plans for Maryhill Locks and the area round Spiers Wharf.
The canal has become a focal point since it was rejuvenated as part of a
Millennium programme.
Boats are again a common sight and walkers, anglers and nature lovers
use it regularly. Thanks to the Falkirk Wheel, boats can travel coast to coast
using the Forth and Clyde and Union canals.
It is a far cry from the dilapidated state of the waterway a few years ago
when parts were silted up and dangerous.
Plans have been drawn up for Maryhill and Spiers Wharf in an attempt to
help both communities.
The Maryhill plan aims to provide 700 social rented homes and some private
housing on 44 acres of derelict land. There are also plans for shops, cafes,
community buildings and small businesses.
At Spiers Wharf - where the land use is primarily industrial and business - the
aim is to provide more jobs and to offer a pleasant residential neighbourhood.
Experts want the canal to be the focus of the changes.
James H _________________ The blinding obvious is what you showed to me.....
"Thanks to the Falkirk Wheel, boats can travel coast to coast
using the Forth and Clyde and Union canals."
As any Jack Tar knows the Falkirk Wheel is by-passed when sailing from 'coast to coast' - the only way to sail 'coast to coast' is by the Forth & Clyde Canal (its in the name).
Using the Wheel and the Union will take a boat to Edinburgh, then you'd need to get a bus/taxi or walk it to Leith - to see the sea.
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