cec canal strategy consultation

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Item noReport no

Edinburgh Canal Strategy: Draft for consultation

Planning Committee19 May 2011

1 Purpose of report

1.1 To seek the Committee's approval of the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy forconsultation.

2 Summary

2.1 The Council and British Waterways (Scotland) (BWS) have prepared a draftEdinburgh Canal Strategy (ECS) for consultation purposes. The draft ECSidentifies on and off canal moorings sites, opportunities for complementarycanal-side developments and opportunities to ensure that the recreational

potential of the canal is fully maximised for the benefit of canal user groups andthe wider community.

2.2 The strategy has been prepared following a consultation exercise and it isproposed that a further consultation exercise is undertaken on the consultativedraft over the summer. The finalised strategy will be reported to PlanningCommittee later in the year.

3 Main report

Background

3.1 In early 2010, the Edinburgh Canal Development Group initiated thepreparation of a strategy for that part of Union Canal that lies within the Citysadministrative boundaries. A series of focus group meetings followed with localand community councillors, the canal community user groups and stakeholderbodies such as SEPA and Sustrans, which led to the to preparation of anEdinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Document in September 2010. Thepurpose of the Consultation Document was to discuss opportunities to makethe canal into a recognisable place whilst identifying issues to be taken forwardin the Strategy. The consultation document was approved by the Planning

Committee on 30 September 2010. Following the consultation, the draftEdinburgh Canal Strategy was prepared and is now attached as Appendix 1 tothis report.

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Predraft consultation

3.2 The aim of the pre-draft consultation exercise was to explore the relevant canalopportunities and issues with a range of stakeholders prior to the developmentof the draft ECS whilst promoting community involvement in the current andfuture use of the Union Canal. The ECS Consultation Document set out a

series of opportunities for development and proposes a development strategybased on five hubs.

3.3 Between October and December 2010 a number of consultation events wereheld in Ratho (3 November), Wester Hailes (17 November), Polwarth (22November) and Tollcross (24 November) as well as drop in session on the Re-union Canal boat at Lochrin Basin and Harrison Park (20 November). Thesesessions were attended by local communities, local and community councillors,key interest groups, including St Andrews Boat Club, Reunion and Spokes, andstakeholder bodies such as SEPA and Sustrans.

3.4 Approximately 500 letters were distributed to a range of individuals,businesses, community, amenity, equalities and heritage groups,Neighbourhood Partnerships, MSPs, MPs, local councillors and statutoryconsultees, inviting comments on a series of set questions. Hard copies of theconsultation document were made available on request.

3.5 The consultation was advertised on the Councils website and via Twitter aswell as a number of external websites that included:

City Cycling Edinburgh Forum

Spokes Marchmont and Sciences Community Council

Morningside Community Council

The Flower Colonies

Friends of Harrison Park

Guardian Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Reporter

Scottish Canals

3.6 26 responses to the consultation document were received from:

Art in Architecture The Coal Authority

The Cockburn Association

Craiglockhart Community Council

Historic Scotland

The National Trust for Scotland

Murray Estates

Peter Scott Planning Services

Scottish Natural Heritage

Scottish Water

Spokes St Andrew Boat Club

Sustrans


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Tollcross Community Council and,

11 local residents.

3.7 The comments received are summarised in Appendix 2 with the recommendedresponse. A note of the workshops held in Ratho, Wester Hailes, Polwarth andTollcross is also provided in Appendix 3. These responses have formed thebasis of the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy.

Partners

3.8 BWS has collaborated with the Council to produce the draft ECS. The draftECS has also benefited from an input from a number of key partners includingArchitecture and Design Scotland and Sustrans.

The draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy

3.9 The draft ECS is split into five parts:

Introduction and background;

A current context section which sets out the canals history and heritage,planning and development policies, movement and connectivity and existingcommunity and tourism resources;

A series of proposed opportunities which will make the canal into arecognisable place whilst addressing issues that may impair its potential;

A Hub and Waterway Strategy within which canal moorings, canal-side and

canal-related development will be focused; and

The proposed consultation.

Opportunities

3.10 The proposed opportunities identified within the draft ECS address the wholelength of the canal and cover issues such as access, lighting, canal moorings,public art and renewable energy. The proposed opportunities have beengrouped into four sections:

Access and the canal environment;

Waterway, development, and environment;

Recreation, tourism and heritage;

Infrastructure, drainage and climate change.

3.11 Under each opportunity topic heading a number of projects have been set outfor discussion as part of the consultation. These opportunities include projectssuch as:

A canal user management strategy;


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Towpath capacity management including designation of additional cycleroutes and a commuter and tourist taxi boat service;

Towpath access improvements and a pinch point strategy (see appendix 1to the draft strategy);

Canal development and canal environment principles as well as a numberof proposed canalside development sites;

Interpretation, public art and lighting;

The development of canalside community facilities; and

Surface water, grey water and renewable energy, heating and cooling.

Hubs and Waterway Strategy

3.12 The draft ECS is developed around a series of hubs within which canalmoorings, canal-side and canal-related development can be focused. Through

the development of hubs it should be possible to create a desirable andsustainable waterway corridor, stimulating waterway and waterside use. Eachhub has a proposed function related to its current character and futureproposed use. The aim is to create five successful and sustainable places. TheStrategy has identified five hubs at:

Ratho

Wester Hailes

Meggetland

Harrison Park

Lochrin Basin

3.13 The draft ECS also recognises the canals links with Bathgate and Linlithgowwithin West Lothian and their role in facilitating use of the Union Canal withinEdinburgh.

3.14 In terms of the waterway strategy, the draft ECS has been designed to ensurethat boaters are presented with a suitable waterway infrastructure that enablesand promotes the enjoyment of the full length of the Union Canal into the City.To encourage waterway activity along the Union Canal into Edinburgh it isproposed that a key objective of the draft ECS is to make Lochrin Basin the

obvious destination for waterway traffic. The reason for this is to ensure that thefull length of waterway corridor is animated by waterway traffic, ensuring thatthe waterspace at Lochrin Basin is populated and animated by a healthywaterway community.

Consultation

3.15 It is proposed to undertake a public consultation exercise based on the draftECS. The aim of the consultation exercise is to:

develop further ideas on how to improve the use of the canal as an asset of

the city through the opportunities outlined within the Strategy;


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identify whether consultees agree/disagree with the proposed Hub Strategyand consider the hubs in are the right place, have the right objectives andthe potential to develop as places;

gather views on increasing the use of the water space along the canalthrough increased moorings (of all types including residential);

gather thoughts on the canal-side development proposals identified withinthe draft strategy;

consider whether key problem access points along the canal have beenidentified correctly; and,

consider whether anything is missing from the Strategy or should beremoved.

3.16 Consultation events will be held throughout June and July 2011 and include:

Presentations to the local Community Councils in Ratho (20 June), WesterHailes (tbc), Longstone (8 August), Craiglockhart (31 May), Merchiston(tbc), and Tollcross (8 June);

Display stands at a number of community events including the EdinburghCanal Festival (9 July), and the Meadows festival (4/5 June); the EdinburghBike Breakfast (22 June) and the Central Scotland Green Network forum(14 June); and,

Further community meetings within the five hubs (Lochrin Basin, HarrisonPark, Meggetland, Wester Hailes and Ratho) and with relevant stakeholders(dates to be confirmed) and on a canal boat (if possible).

3.17 A full list of consultation dates and events will be made available online via theCouncils website. It is anticipated that a finalised Edinburgh Canal Strategy,together with the results of the consultation exercise will be reported toPlanning Committee by the end of 2011.

Strategic Environmental Assessment

3.18 A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the draft Edinburgh CanalStrategy is required under the SEA Directive. This is intended to provide for ahigh level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration ofenvironmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans with aview to promoting sustainable development. An Environmental Scoping Reporthas been prepared. The interim Environmental Report (background paper) willbe the subject of consultation alongside the draft Strategy and will be submittedto the Consultation Authorities (Historic Scotland, SNH and SEPA). Theoutcomes of this will be reported back with the final Strategy.


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4 Financial Implications

4.1 The costs of preparing and consulting on the draft ECS will be contained withinthe revenue budget for 2011-12. There are no other financial implications forthe Council arising from this report.

5 Equalities Impact

5.1 There is no relationship between the matters described in this report and thepublic sector general equality duty.

5.2 There is no direct equalities impact arising from this report.

6 Environmental Impact

6.1 The interim Environmental Report will be made available for commentalongside the draft ECS. The outcomes of this exercise will inform thepreparation of the final strategy. There are no adverse environmental impactsanticipated.

7 Conclusions

7.1 The Council and BWS have prepared a draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy forconsultation purposes to guide the future leisure and recreational development

of the Union Canal.

7.2 Following a series of pre-draft consultation exercises, a draft Edinburgh CanalStrategy is being made available for wider public consultation. The draftstrategy promotes a number of opportunities and canal hubs.

8 Recommendations

8.1 It is recommended that the Planning Committee:

a) Approves the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy for consultation purposes;

b) Authorises officials to make any non-substantive amendments to thedocument prior to consultation; and

c) Refers this report to Economic Development Committee for information.

Dave AndersonDirector of City Development


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Appendices Appendix 1: Draft Edinburgh Canal StrategyAppendix 2: Pre-draft Consultation comments and responsesAppendix 3: Pre-draft Consultation Workshops

Contact/tel/Email Kate Hopper (0131) 529 6232 [email protected] Wood (0131) 529 3904 [email protected]

Wards affected 2, 7, 9

Single OutcomeAgreement

Supports National Outcome 1:We live in a Scotland that is the most attractiveplace for doing business in Europe.

Supports Edinburgh Outcomes: Edinburgh is a thriving, growing city with ahigh quality of life and environment and a prosperous economy.

Supports Edinburgh Outcome: Edinburgh is an internationally competitivebusiness location that attracts talent and investment to its growingknowledge-based economy.

Supports Edinburgh Outcome: Edinburgh is the UKstop performing touristdestination outside of London.

Supports National Outcome I0: We live in well-designed, sustainable placeswhere we are able to access the amenities and services we need.

Supports National Outcome 12: We value and enjoy our built and naturalenvironment and protect it and enhance it for future generations

Supports Edinburgh Outcome: Edinburgh's natural and built environment issupported and enhanced.

BackgroundPapers

1 Report to Planning Committee 'The Edinburgh Canal DevelopmentStrategy' 28 February 2008

2 Report to Planning Committee 'The Edinburgh Canal DevelopmentStrategy Update on Progress' 3 December 2009

3 Report to Planning Committee Edinburgh Canal Strategy ConsultationDocument 30 September 2010

4 Interim Environmental Report 19 May 2011

5 Draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy Appendix 1 Access Improvements

KH/FK/PLANCOM/Edinburgh Canal Strategy10 May 2011
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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The Edinburgh Canal StrategyCONSULTATION DRAFT

MAY 2011


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City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 3

The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft

The Edinburgh Canal Strategy

Since its re-birth as part of the Millennium Link Project the Union Canal has come a long way from a derelict

backwater to become one of Edinburghs most important heritage, recreational and community assets.

The Union Canal is now enjoyed on a daily basis by people from across

the city and beyond for a variety of uses such as boating, rowing, walking,

cycling and shing.

The Union Canal is also a focus for new development, particularly at

Fountainbridge, for new canal boat moorings and marinas and for canal-

focused community activities. However, as the canal is developed, it must

also be protected and its potential maximised for the for the benet of

the wider community and environment.

The City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) and British Waterways Scotland

(BWS) have prepared this draft strategy for the Union Canal within the

Edinburgh area to guide its development.

The Strategy now sets out opportunities for discussion with the wider

community through a period of public consultation; at the end of which

CEC and BWS hope to promote a vision of the place we wish the Union

Canal to be.

The Union Canal is one o Edinburghs hidden gems.

We hope this Strategy will allow more o our citizens

to appreciate and beneft rom its beauty as well as the

economic development potential it provides.

Councillor Tim McKay, Edinburgh Canal Champion

we are delighted to be part o the emerging Edinburgh

Canal Strategy led by the City o Edinburgh Council. We

look orward to working in partnership with the Council

and other city stakeholders to ensure that this exciting

initiative generates the maximum benefit or canalside

communities and the capital as a whole

Steve Dunlop, Direcor, British Waterways (Scotland)

Contents

Section1 - introduction

Background 4

The Strategy 5

Section2 currentcontext

Scotlands Canals and The Union Canal In Edinburgh 9

History and Heritage 10

Planning and Development 11

Movement and Connectivity 13

Community and Tourism 14

Section3 o pportunitieS

Access / Canal Environment 16

Waterway / Development / Environment 17

Recreation / Tourism 18

Infrastructure / drainage / climate change 19

Section4 the Strategy

Hubs and Waterway Strategy 22

Ratho 24

Wester Hailes 26

Meggetland 28

Harrison Park 30

Lochrin Basin 32

Section5 conSultation

Consultation Information 35


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The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation

4 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development

Background

The development of a strategy for the Union Canal within Edinburgh was initiated by

the Edinburgh Canal Development Group in 2010. The development of a strategy

for the Union Canal within Edinburgh provides the chance to discuss opportunities

to make the canal into a more recognisable place whilst addressing issues that may

impair its potential.

Following a number of focus groups with Local Councillors, Community Councils, canal community and user

groups as well as stakeholder bodies such as SEPA and Sustrans, The Council and British Waterways Scotland

produced an Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Document in September 2010. The Consultation

Document set out a proposed Hub Strategy and a series of opportunities for development.

Between October and December 2010 a number of consultation events were held to discuss the questions

set out within the Consultation Document. These events were held in Ratho, Wester Hailes, Polwarth and

Tollcross as well as drop in session on the Re-union Canal boat at Lochrin Basin and Harrison Park. Further

workshops were held with key interest groups. Responses to the consultation document are available as a

separate report.

The Council and British Waterways Scotland have now prepared this Draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy

for the Union Canal. A public consultation will now take place in June and July to consider the strategy and

proposals set out within the Strategy which aim to make the Union Canal into a successful and recognisable

place.


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The Edinburgh Canal Strategy is developed around a series of opportunites and canal hubs which will make the Union Canal

a recognisable place whilst addressing issues that may impair its potential. The Strategy proposes ve hub within which canal

moorings, canalside and canal related development can be focused.

It is recognised that there is an opportunity at

Ratho to enhance the recreational potential of the

Canal, building on the Edinburgh Canal Centre, links

with the Ratho Adventure centre and its position asan overnight mooring point between Linlithgow and

Edinburgh.

Within Wester Hailes the key aim is to stimulate

a range of canal-side, recreational, business, and

community uses whilst marking the arrival of canal

users into Edinburgh.

Meggetland is home to a number of boathouses

and it is envisaged that this area could become a

centre of excellence for watersports on the canal for

both rowing and paddlesports.

The Edinburgh Canal Quarter identies the

Edinburgh end of the Union canal and stretches

fromHarrison Parkin the west to Edinburgh

Quay. This includes the range of existing and new

uses and developments coming forward, linked

by new water space, and high quality public

realm, in a linear route to the City Centre.

The Strategy

Lochrin Basin needs to generate adequate

waterway trac to animate the waterspace. High

quality visitor moorings should be complimented

by commercial and residential moorings to create

a vibrant sustainable waterway neighbourhood

throughout the year.


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www.photosofedinburgh.co.uk

hrin Basin Grant Ritchie

w.photosofedinburgh.co.uk


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Current Context


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The Union Canal, the last of Scotlands major canals, was a commercial venture begun in 1818 and completed in

1822. It was built principally as a means of importing coal and lime into Edinburgh, and ran from Port Hopetoun in

Edinburgh to join the Forth & Clyde Canal at Camelon, Stirlingshire.

Designed by the engineer Hugh

Baird, the 31.5 mile Union Canal

was built in only 4 years between

1818 and 1822 at a cost of

461,760 twice its initial estimate.

The Canal was built using picks,

shovels and wheelbarrows by

labourers known as navigators

navvies. Many immigrants came

from Ireland to work on the canal

including notably William Burke

and William Hare.

The canal was ocially opened in May 1822, the rst boat to make the

complete journey by water bringing agstones from Denny to Port

Hopetoun. However, within 20 years of completion most of its passenger

trac was lost to the railways, and the Edinburgh basins closed in 1922.

The rest of the canal remained navigational until 1965 when it was nally

closed by an Act of Parliament.

In 2002, Britains largest canal restoration project, The Millennium Link,

restored navigation, and with an extension to the Union Canal and a link

with the Forth & Clyde Canal through the Falkirk Wheel, boats were once

more able to travel between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The Union Canal is a signicant industrial heritage asset not just for the

city, but nationally and internationally and is recognised as such by itsscheduled ancient monument status.

The Union Canal was built as a contour canal - it follows a 73m contour

throughout its length. The canal has no locks; instead it travels over three

aqueducts, including the second largest aqueduct in Britain - the Avon

Aqueduct by Linlithgow, Slateford Aqueduct that takes the canal over

the Water of Leith in Edinburgh and the Almond Aqueduct near Ratho.

The canal also passes through the oldest and longest canal tunnel in

Scotland - the 631m Falkirk Tunnel. At the Edinburgh end, the Leamington

lift bridge can be found at Fountainbridge. This hydraulic bridge was built

in 1906 by Armstrong of Newcastle and was refurbished and re-opened

as part of the Millennium Link Project in 2002.

por t hopetoun

Port Hopetoun formed the eastern terminus of the canal at Lothian

Road. At the height of the canal trade in the mid-19th century Port

Hopetoun was a busy port, employing a large workforce of dockers to

unload the barges that brought coal, timber, stone, slate, brick, sand and

lime into Edinburgh from the west. It was also the departure point for

the fast passenger boats that ran day and night between Edinburgh and

Glasgow, and the cattle boats that followed the same route.

However, as the canal trade declined the area around the port gradually

deteriorated, and by the early 20th century the port was described as

one of the most hideous features of Edinburgh. The basin closed in

1922, and a new terminus, Lochrin Basin, established on the south side

of Fountainbridge.

Port Hopetoun, Union Canal, Edinburgh,. Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland; Licensor www.scran.ac.uk

History and Heritage

Port Hopetoun from Lothian Road/Fountainbridge during inll of basin Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland; Licensor www.scran.ac.uk

Scheduled Ancient Monuments

1 Union Canal2 Craigpark Quarry

3 Baberton Mains

4 Colinton Castle

Aqueduct

Lift Bridge

Aqueduct


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Planning and Development

the MillenniuM lin k project

Plans for reconnecting the Union Canal with the Forth and Clyde Canal

The Millennium Link project was launched by British Waterways in 1994,

with funding secured in 1997.

The 84.5 million pound project started in March 1999 and included a

number of signicant engineering projects including on the Union Canal

a new section of canal at Wester Hailes, the diversion of the canal by the

M8 motorway and a new bridge, the reopening of the Leamington Lift

Bridge and the joining together of the two canals by the Falkirk Wheel.

The Union Canal was ocially reopened in 2001, with the Millennium

Link completed with the opening of the Falkirk Wheel by HRH The Queen

and The Duke of Edinburgh in May 2002 marking the completion of the

project.

edinburgh Quay

Edinburgh Quay was the rst signicant commercial

development to take advantage of the reopening

canal, built on a largely derelict land at the canals

Edinburgh terminus at Lochrin Basin. As part of the

development more than 5500sqm of oce space has

been created in the last ve years. There has also been

a signicant level of residential and student housing

development around the canal at Leamington Wharf

and Fountain North as part of the Fountainbridge

redevelopment.

There is still a signicant amount of derelict land at

Fountainbridge. The remainder of the Fountainbridge

site is currently under consideration as part of a

planning application

thecanalwaterway

Traditionally canals were navigated by canal boats or

narrow boats designed to carry goods on the narrow

canals. Larger wider boats such as barges were also

used. Today, many of these boats can still be seen

moored at Lochrin Basin or along the canal banks at

Harrison Park and Ratho.

There are many types of moorings available on

the Union Canal, including long term moorings

(otherwise known as home moorings) used for the

general berthing of a boat, visitor moorings for those

taking a holiday on the canal, commercial moorings

for restaurants and oces, and residential moorings

for people who wish to live permanently on a boat.

FountainbridgedevelopMentbrieF

The Fountainbridge Development Brief was approved by The City of

Edinburgh Council in 2004 and amended in 2005. The Brief set out the

planning context for the Edinburgh end of the Union Canal following the

closure of Fountain Brewery by Scottish and Newcastle.

The purpose of the brief was to establish a comprehensive townscape

and infrastructure framework for the Fountainbridge area. The brief sets

outs the main planning and design principles on which development in

the area will be based, and seeks to maximise the benets of regeneration

for local communities and the City as a whole. The development brief

covers 32.5 hectares and a wide range of uses.

planning policy

The Edinburgh City Local Plan 2010 recognises that the restored canal

network is a nationally signicant asset with considerable potential for

recreational use and canal related development. However, proposals

have to take account of its interest as a scheduled ancient monument

and its importance for wildlife.

The Plan recognises that there is potential for development within the

urban area, and include most importantly sites around the terminal

basin at Fountainbridge, indentifed by the Plan as one of its Central Area

proposals (CA 3) and covered by the Fountainbridge Development Brief.

Other urban area locations with special potential are Wester Hailes and

Harrison Park, but recognises that any feasible proposal will need to be

the subject of consultation with local communities.

The Plan highlights that development adjoining the canal should focus

on the canal, by providing active frontages and a diversity of uses and

by enhancing access for pedestrians and cyclists to the canal. Attention

should also be paid to its nature conservation value.


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Environment and Biodiversity

The Union Canal is one of Edinburghs most important wildlife corridors. Contained within a narrow strip

of waterway and towing path one can nd an astonishing range of dierent habitats, from slow owing

freshwater with its adjacent reed fringe to grassland, hedgerow and woodland. Since closure the canal has

developed a diverse aquatic and emergent fringe ora.

The canal stretches through both rural and urban areas, linking adjacent

woodlands, species rich grasslands and other watercourses, and allowing

relatively easy movement through often otherwise hostile and more intensively

managed surrounding land. For these reasons the canal is identied as a Local

Nature Conservation Site (LNCS). All of the Union Canal receives protection

from development in relevant local plans.

edinburgh local biodiverSity action pla n (elbap)

2010-2015

The Union Canal is included in the Freshwater and Wetland section of the

Edinburgh Local Biodiversity Action Plan (EBLAP) 2010-2015. British Waterways

is a partner in this plan. The canal is identied for its important function in the

city, providing semi-natural habitat and commuting corridors for wildlife, as well

as recreation and amenity benets. The plan stressed that it is important that

habitat and water quality is maintained and enhanced.

The overall aims of the ELBAP Freshwater and Wetland plan are

1. To maintain and enhance the biological diversity of Edinburghs rivers, canals,

lochs, ponds and other freshwater habitat.

2. To help deliver the requirements of the Water Framework Directive by

helping to achieve good ecological status of Edinburghs wetland habitats.

The EBLAP identies that the Edinburgh Canal Strategy should include objectives

for biodiversity enhancement.

habitatS andSpecieS

The Union canal environment includes a wide range of associated fauna

including ten dierent sh species, dragonies, damselies and other

invertebrates, wetland birds, bats, badgers, seed eating birds, bees, otters

and water voles.

In terms of habitats, these include the diverse waters edge and towpath

grasslands. The boundary habitats of hedges and stone walls oer

valuable habitats for mosses and lichens as well as small mammals such

as weasels. The canal corridor is enclosed by these boundary features,

which together with the canals bridges, aqueducts and buildings, is also

important habitat for bats.

Environment and Biodiversity

Union CanalGreen Corridor

Green Belt

Public Parks

Urban Woodland


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Movement and Connectivity

Whilst the Union Canal towpath was once used by horses, attached to canal boats to pull them along the water,

it is now a popular walking and cycling route. Around seven million people use the canals towpath annually,

ranging from running to walking the dog.

cycling andwalking

The towpath connects Edinburgh to Kirkintilloch and the Bowling Basin

on the west coast of Scotland via the Forth and Clyde canal to Edinburgh.

The towpath forms part of the 106km cycle route NCN 754 and Forth to

Firth pathway. The Union Canal also forms part of the 138km Forth to

Clyde cycle route (Sustrans route NCN 75).

The towpath is also popular for local commuting, either via cycle or foot

as it provides a direct trac-free route into the city centre and links with

the Water of Leith and The Roseburn Path.

The Union Canal can also be reached by train from Haymarket, Slateford,

Kingsknowe, Wester Hailes and Edinburgh Park Stations.

boatingonthe union canal

By the 1930s, leisure boating was a popular pastime, on the canal, with

a boating station established at Slateford, and closer to the city centre

at Johnstons Boat-houses at Port Hopetoun, then the eastern terminal

basin of the canal.

The oldest rowing club on the canal, St Andrews Boat Club at Meggetland,

dates from 1846. Regattas between rival university clubs were popular

throughout the 1920s and 1930s, and several Edinburgh schools also

established boat clubs on the canal.

Today, the St Andrews Rowing Club, George Watsons Rowing Club,

Heriots Rowing Club and Edinburgh University Rowing Clubs as well as

the Forth Canoe Club are all based on the Union Canal at Meggetland

and by Harrison Park.

Johnstons Boat-houses,Lochrin Basin.Royal Commission on the Ancient andHistorical Monuments of Scotland; Licensorwww.scran.ac.uk.

Movement and Connectivity

Union Canal

Walking /Cycle route

Rail line and stations

Bus Routes


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Community and Tourism

the edinburgh canal FeStival

The annual Edinburgh Canal Festival, held at

Edinburgh Quay in June, oers an opportunity

for people of all ages to experience at rst hand

the appeal of the Union Canal. Organised by Re-

union and sponsored by The City of Edinburgh

Council and British Waterways the festival hosts

the Edinburgh Raft Race, free boat and canoe

trips, a wee boat otilla, bands, an canal art

exhibition, stalls and performers.

Lochrin basin at Edinburgh Quay has also been an Edinburgh festival

venue, including hosting parties for the 2003 and 2007 Edinburgh Film

Festival.

coMMunity

The Union Canal in Edinburgh is promoted by 3 third sector organisations,

Edinburgh Canal Society, based at Harrison Park, Re-Union Canal Boats,

who operate from Edinburgh Quay and the Seagull Trust who have a

base at Ratho.

edinburgh canal Society

Edinburgh Canal Society was set up in 1986, to join the Linlithgow

and Forth and Clyde Societies work in promoting the canals survival

and regeneration. The Society was one of the ocial Millennium Link

partners involved in the reopening of the Union Canal in 2001 and was

involved in the rst Edinburgh Canal Festival in 2009.

Edinburgh Canal Society are based at the iconic Ashley Terrace Boathouse

by Harrison Park. The Society rents both rowing boats for up to six people

every Sunday, as well as trips on a classic motor Kelvin Launch between

Edinburgh Quay and Harrison Park. The boathouse was moved to in

its present location by Ashley Terrace Bridge in 1987 and is due to be

refurbished.

re-union

Re-Union Canal Boats is a social enterprise operating a widebeam canal

boat from Edinburgh Quay. Re-Union work with volunteers from all

walks of life and oer crew training through the NCBA and the RYA which

allows their volunteers to operate a 35 passenger carrying boat to cruise

the Union Canal. The boat oers a unique, fully accessible, venue and is

available for community, corporate and private hire.

Re-Union also work with communities along the Union Canal and

manage canoe building programmes, supported the development of

Bridge 8 canoe club, host a oating youth club, planted an orchard and

is working on the Calders Community Garden development.

Re-Union also co-ordinate canal based events and carry out regular

community consultations. All of these activities are designed to

encourage positive engagement with the community resource that is

the Union Canal.

Ashley Terrace Boathouse Grant Ritchie

dinburgh Quay

Seagull truStcruiSeS

The Seagull Trust was formed in 1978 to provide free canal cruising for

disabled people and to help revitalise the decaying Scottish Lowland

Waterways.

In 1997 Seagull Trust Cruises was formed as a Company Limited by

Guarantee to simplify some of the operationa l functions of the Trust. At

the end of October 2007 the Seagull Trust was disbanded leaving the

Company to manage the operation of the cruising programme. Initially

cruises ran from Ratho on the Union Canal but there are now a total

of four branches located in Scotland on the Union, Forth & Clyde and

Caledonian Canals.

The Seagull trust currently operate two boats from their base by The

Bridge Inn at Ratho - the Mackay Seagull and the St John Crusader II

which both carry a maximum of 12 people.


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OpportunitiesT

he development of a strategy for the Union Canal within Edinburgh

provides the chance to discuss opportunities to make the canal

into a recognisable place whilst addressing issues that may impair its

potential. These opportunities are available across the whole length

of the canal and cover issues such as access, lighting, canal mooring

development, public art and renewable energy.

The opportunities have been group into four sections:

Access / Canal Environment

Waterway / Development / Environment

Recreation / Tourism

Infrastructure / drainage / climate change

Under each topic heading a number of key opportunities and projects have been set out

for discussion as part of the consultation.


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Waterway / Development / Environment

There is a challenge in promoting canal side developments whilst protecting the existing character of the proposed

hubs including the village of Ratho, and the historic canal structure and environment and biodiversity.

projectS

1. developMentoF canal developMent principleS

Canal side and waterway developments should:

Respect the setting of the canal as a scheduled ancient monument

Accept that the canal and the towpath are an integral part of the public realm

of new waterside development in terms of both design and management

Be orientated so that of buildings optimise views of the water, generate

natural surveillance of water space, and encourage and improve access to,

along and from the water.

Treat the canal as a leisure and commercial resource in its own right not just

a setting or backdrop for development

Be designed to include for water-based development, use and enhancement.

Maintain or provide public access to the canal edge and towpath and

enhance access for pedestrians, cyclists, canoeists, rowers and boaters.

Encourage the creation of canal side communities with a range of

complementary uses and space for activity

Strike a balance between the range of mooring types and between mobile and

static commercial boats.

Include designs which enhance biodiversity value e.g. green roofs, sustainable

urban drainage systems, vegetated areas which link to the canal.

2. developMentoF canal environMent principleS

The Edinburgh Canal Strategy proposes to:

Support the protection, conservation and enhancement of the Union Canal and

the character, feature and quality of its biodiversity including its waterway habitats

and protected species, ora and fauna.

Consider the collection of Integrated habitat network information to inform habitat

connectivity enhancements to contribute to the wider Central Scotland Green

Network

Continue British Waterways annual wildlife survey.

Develop volunteer involvement in habitat management

Eradicate of invasive plant species including Japanese knotweed and Himalayan

Balsam and management of Dutch elm diseased trees

It is important that the Canal Strategy promotes the proper integration

between canal-side development and the canal corridor by establishing

appropriate design principles both for new development on the canal

banks and on the water.

The canal corridor also provides a very important landscape feature

both from the natural heritage and historic environment perspective.

The approach to development and management of the canal thereforehas to strike a balance between the care of historic built environment

features with living skin of wildlife habitats and species.

key opportunitieS

Oering opportunities for large and small scale development

ranging from new businesses and oces and shops to small scale

community housing and creating job opportunities at:

Freelands Road, Ratho,

Wester Hailes town centre,

Fountainbridge

Creating new waterspace and moorings, in order to establish a

strong waterway community,

Improving and developing appropriate canal-side facilities for

boaters and non boaters including toilets, seating, signage, and

lighting along the canal and in particular at:

Wester Hailes - canal festival area

Meggetlands watersports centre

Fountainbridge and Yeoman Place access

Harrison Park

Securing the future maintenance of the canal and canalside

environment by securing support for the canal corridor from

canalside developments.

10

98

6

75

4

32

1

Development Proposals Map

1 Freelands Road Site

2 Wester Hailes Canal Festival Area

3 Wester Hailes Town Centre

4 Meggetland Watersports Centre

5 Harrison Park moorings & canal side improvements

6 Yeoman Place access

7 Fountainbridge bridges

8 Fountainbridge development

9 Arnold Clark site

10 Bingo Hall


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Infrastructure / Drainage / Climate Change

The Union Canal is not just a leisure and environmental resource but a source of renewable energy and forms part

of the land drainage system. Therefore, any new development or redevelopment of existing property on or close

to the canal should consider the sustainable benets the canal has to oer.

key opportunitieS

Exploring the canal as a water resource including improving water

quality, managing land drainage and avoiding, reducing and

managing ood risk

Considering how the canal can contribute to supporting climate

change, carbon reduction and Environmental Sustainability

Promoting the innovative use of the canal towpath as a utility and

telecommunications route

projectS

1. SurFace water

With a great demand on Scotlands sewerage system, any process that

results in surface water being treated in a sustainable way is a real

advantage. The canal is well placed in Edinburgh to take surface water

from existing and new developments. As such, the canal should be

considered as a cost eective solution for the receiver of all surface water

generated from new developments.

2. renewableenergy, heatingand cooling

The canal is a renewable energy resource, for example, generating

onshore hydro electric power, using canal water for heating and cooling

buildings and the use of the water way for urban cooling

Canal water can be used for heating and cooling for both commercial

and residential buildings. This heat exchange technology is being used

throughout the UK and extensively in Northern Europe. Buildings that

use the canal for cooling/heating can potentially recoup their initial

outlay within four years through electricity savings, and then go on to

enjoy cheaper utility bills, as well as substantially reducing their carbon

footprint.

Any development that occurs within a 250m proximity of the canal

should consider the use of this technology as a long term sustainable

solution.

3. grey water

Commercial users as well as social landlords should consider the

use of the canal for the provision of grey water. Many buildings use

considerable amounts of water which does not have to be cleaned to

the standard provided by Scottish Water. Rather than using drinking

water for industrial processes or even in the toilets, the canal can be used

for grey water in a sustainable way.




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The Strategy


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LINLIT

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The Edinburgh Canal Strategy is developed

around a series of hubs within which canal

moorings, canal side and canal related

development can be focused.

The Strategy has considered the role and

function of these hubs in the context of

cruising times, destinations, available services

and facilities.

Through the development of these hubs it

should be possible to create a desirable and

sustainable waterway corridor, simulating

waterway and waterside use.

The Strategy has identied ve hubs at Ratho,

Wester Hailes, Meggetland, Harrison Park

and Lochrin Basin. Each hub has a proposed

function related to its current character and

proposed future use.

The Strategy also links with Bathgate and

Linlithgow and recognises their role within

West Lothian and their role in facilitating use

of the Union Canal within Edinburgh.

The Strategy is also designed to ensure that

boaters are presented with a waterway that

enables and promotes the enjoyment of the

full use of the canal into the city.

To encourage waterway activity along the

canal it is proposed that a key objective of

the Strategy is to make the Edinburgh Canal

Quarter (Harrison Park to Lochrin Basin) the

obvious destination for waterway trac.

The reason for this is to ensure that the full

length of the canal is animated by boat trac,

including Lochrin basin, ensuring a healthy

canal community.

HUBS AND WATERWAY STRATEGY


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LOCHRIN

LOCHRINBASIN

BA

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Ratho

Ratho is reasonably established as an attractive

waterway destination. The existing waterside

pub will be supplemented by proposed canal side

residential moorings generating a strong waterway

focus.

In order to sustain the full waterway corridor the

canal side at Ratho should not be further developed

as a major overnight visitor destination to avoid

this distracting from Lochrin basin as the perceived

destination and end to terminus to navigation in

Edinburgh. Ratho should be a place to pause and

enjoy en route to the City.

The Bridge Inn at Ratho Grant Ritchie - www.photosofedinburgh.co.uk

the waterway village

It is recognised that there is an opportunity at Ratho to enhance the recreational potential of the Canal, building on the Edinburgh

Canal Centre, links with the Ratho Adventure centre and its position as an overnight mooring point between Linlithgow and

Edinburgh.


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projectS

There are a number of opportunities for improving

the canal at Ratho including:

Access to canal particularly along the western

edge of the village,

Improvements to the canal towpath,

New boat moorings and the proposed marina

at Freelands Road and a mix of residential and

commercial boats within new marina.

Improving the condition of existing moorings

and commercial oer on the canal

Improvement of canal side and services around

residential moorings;

Improving education, awareness, village

information, and links with existing community

uses, including the need for a public square

along the canal and,

Improving links east to city and west to the

Ratho Adventure Centre as well as the creation

of a pedestrian / cycle loops along the canal.

The strategy should protect against the

overdevelopment/urbanisation of the canal side

and promote co-ordination between developers,

British Waterways and the community to upgrade

and maintain quality of the canal.


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ServiceandviSitorle dMixeduSeMooringS .

Wester Hailes marks the entrance of the canal to the urban area of Edinburgh. It is recognised that substantial pro-active work

is required over time if the original regeneration theme of the canal is to hold good for Wester Hailes. The City of Edinburgh

Council and British Waterways (Scotland) are major landowners and shareholders within Wester Hailes and this will enable canal

focused regeneration to be addressed in a holistic manner.

The key aim of the Strategy at Wester Hailes is

to stimulate a range of canal-side, recreational,

business, and community uses whilst marking the

arrival of canal users into Edinburgh. The proximity to

the shopping centre and supermarket make Wester

Hailes a potentially useful stopping point for boaters

to stock up on provisions. This servicing function

could be supplemented by additional facilities such

as waterpoints, refuse stores and pump outs; and

suitable sites for boat repairs/boat building.

The opportunity for canal side community

development such as community water sports clubs,

sea scouts etc also exists in Wester Hailes. Wester

Hailes also has good links to the city centre from

Kingsknowe Railway Station and public transport

links at Hailesland Road and Murrayburn Road

Wester Hailes


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Meggetland

waterSportShub

Meggetland is home to a number of boathouses and it is envisaged that this area could become a centre of excellence for

watersports on the canal for both rowing and paddlesports. However, there is currently a lack of linkages between the canal

and Meggetland and the large car park creates a sterile environment.

For the Meggetland section of the Canal to thrive

as a recreational hub, a number of issues must be

addressed. Lack of quality facilities and safe access

to the canal is a key issue for users within this area.

With the ever increasing usage of the towpath by

pedestrians and cyclists, getting boat equipment

to the water can, at times, be dangerous. Improved

facilities and canal access is needed to address this

conict.

Weed build up within the canal often leads to a

narrowing of the waterspace, therefore, additional

maintenance of this stretch of canal would improve

safety and benet the activities of all the watersport

clubs.


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projectS


the canal at Meggetland including:

The creation of passing areas for canal boats.

The linking of the sports centre with the canal by

focusing facilities and rowing clubs

The possible creation of slalom for canoes.

The reconguration of the car park and use of

landscaping to create auditorium/urban park.

Installation of street furniture.

Removal/maintenance of the canal banks and

hedging.


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Harrison Park

Harrison Park is a relaxed green waterside space for people.

Within the park there is an opportunity to improve the

linkages between the park and the canal with improved

hard and soft landscaping and a cafe, toilets and picnic

facilities.

Harrison Park Grant Ritchiewww.photosofedinburgh.co.uk

theciviliSedwaterwaypark

The Edinburgh Canal Quarter identies the Edinburgh end of the Union canal and stretches from Harrison Park in the west to

Edinburgh Quay. This includes the range of existing and new uses and developments coming forward, linked by new water space,

and high quality public realm, in a linear route to the City Centre.


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To optimise the potential of Harrison Park as part

of the Edinburgh Canal Quarter it is improtant to

establish a waterway neighbourhood with both

visitor and residential moorings. In additions to

these moorings, there are opportunities for seasonal

commercial moorings close to Ashley terrace

projectS


the canalat Harrison Park including:

Improving the integration of canal with the

park through the use of formal landscaping and

removal of physical barriers;

Creation of new residential and visitor moorings;

Introduction of cafs/commercial enterprises on

canal or re-use of the pavilion at Ogilvie Terrace;

Improvement in the quality of access to the tow

path from bridges at Ogilvie Terrace and Harrison

Road.


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Lochrin Basin needs to generate adequate waterway

trac to animate the waterspace. High quality visitor

moorings should be complimented by commercial

and residential moorings to create a vibrant

sustainable waterway neighbourhood throughout

the year.

projectS


the canal at Lochrin Basin ncluding:

The creation of a waterway destination at the

terminus of the Union Canal;

The creation of a visual/ physical link between

Lochrin Place and the canal;

Improving the balance of uses both on and o

water, to increase and sustain appropriate activity;

The creation of residential moorings;

New links between urban area and tow path

particularly at Dorset Place, New Freer Street and

Walker Bridge

Treatment of wall to rear of tenements on Watson

Crescent/ or reuse of wall through art installations.


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Your views on the future vision for the Union Canal are very

important. The Council and British Waterways Scotland are

particularly keen to find out:

Whether you agree/disagree with the proposed Hub Strategy. Are

the hubs in the right place, do they have the right objectives?

If you any ideas on how to improve the use of the canal as an asset

of the city?

What are your views on increasing the use of the water space

along the canal through increased moorings (of all types including

residential) and recreational activities?

What are your thoughts on the canal side development proposals

identified within the draft strategy?

Do you think we have identified the key problem access points

along the canal?

Do you think we have missed anything? Or, as the case may be,

included something we shouldnt have?



CONSULTATION

In order to consider the opportunities and the proposed hub strategy a period of public consultation is proposed.

Consultation events will be held throughout June and July 2011. Events will be held:

within the ve hubs (Lochrin Basin, Harrison Park, Meggetland, Wester Hailes and Ratho);

with the community councils in R atho, Wester Hailes, Longstone, Craiglockhart, Merchiston, and Tollcross;

at a number of Community Events including the Edinburgh Canal Festival, and the Meadows festival; and,

at a number of other events such as the Edinburgh Bike Breakfast and the Central Scotland Green Network forum.

Responses to this document should be returned to the Council by Monday 1st August 2011.

If you would like to be involved in this consultation exercise the dates and locations of the consultation meetings and

events are available on the Council Website www.edinburgh.gov.uk : search Edinburgh Canal Strategy.

Alternatively, please do not hesitate can contact Kate Hopper or Craig Wood of the Planning Service, City of Edinburgh

Council on:

Kate [email protected] 0131 529 6232

Craig [email protected] 0131 529 3904

This document will be available at the Planning & Building Standards reception area at the Councils oces at Waverley

Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh.

It is expected that a draft Strategy, together with the results of the consultation exercise will be reported to Planning

Committee by the end of 2011.

Consultation Information


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You can get this document on tape, in Braille, large print and various computer formats if you ask us. Please

contact Interpretation and Translation Service (ITS) on 0131 242 8181 and quote reference number xxxxx . ITScan also give information on community language translations. You can get more copies of this document by

calling 0131 529 6232.

The Edinburgh Canal StrategyCONSULTATION

MAY 2011


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EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGYPre-draft consultation comments

ConsultationQuestion

Consultation Response received (key points highlighted) Council R

Cockburn AssociationThe main opportunities appear to have been identified, but thereis no specific mention of opportunities for biodiversity or publicart - vide Ratho Forges ornamental metal interpretive signage atRatho.

Lighting the canal from Edinburgh Quay to the by-pass at WesterHailes is required; lighting should be as unobtrusive as possiblesuch as the LED sunk lights demonstrated at Meggetland. Wherethe Towpath is too narrow consideration should be given towidening.

Better control of foliage growth is required more frequently. Intimes of snow someone should be responsible for keeping thetraffic free artery open by clearing the towpath a.s.a.p.

Interpretation centre/caf/toilet facilities in the Edinburgh Quayshould be considered as part of the new office developments.

INCLUDEDOpportunit

INCLUDEDEnvironme

INCLUDEDEnvironme

INCLUDEDOpportunit

Question 1

Do you consider that wehave identified the fullrange of opportunitiesfor the Union Canal? Ifnot, what alternatives oradditions would youpropose?

Scottish Natural HeritageWe welcome the opportunities to improve access andconnections with the canal and surrounding areas, and toimprove recreational uses along the canal. However, the canal is

a major wildlife corridor within the city, as identified on page 9 AWildlife Habitat, and therefore it is surprising that there are noopportunities listed for the natural heritage or biodiversity. Wetherefore recommend the addition of an entry along the lines of:"Promoting the Union Canal as one of Edinburgh's most INCLUDED


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important wildlife corridors by safeguarding and/or enhancingboth water quality and existing canal side habitats"

Within the Edinburgh Access Strategy, there are aims to improve

access to and use of the canal. These aims have been reflectedwithin this strategy which is to be commended. It would be usefulfor links to other strategies and plans, with similar aims oraspirations for the canal, to be made within this document.

Developmsection

NOTED Lothian antransport s

Historic ScotlandWe consider that there are also opportunities to use the strategyto raise awareness of the scheduled status of the canal and topromote its heritage value.

INCLUDEDsection anEnvironme

St Andrew Boat ClubThe stretch of the Union Canal from Harrison Park to theCraiglockhart aqueduct is heavily used by rowers and canoeists.Every year, there are problems with the amount of weed on thecanal. The infrequent clearing of weed by BWB is not enough tocontrol the weed to a suitable level. Weed severely hampers allour activities by narrowing the canal and making it harder tonavigate. The reduction in width due to weed presents a safetyissue when we meet other boats. Passing other rowing boatsand canoes is difficult. Passing canal barges is dangerous in anumber of spots. Better maintenance of the water sports stretchof canal would improve safety and benefit the activities of all

waters ports clubs.

The high canal traffic also causes problems with pedestrians andcyclists on the tow path. We must cross the towpath to accessthe canal, a dangerous activity at peak times. Better

INCLUDEDEnvironme

INCLUDEDEnvironme


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management of weed and grass growth, combined with clearermarking of canal accesses and crossing places wouldsignificantly improve matters. Traffic calming measures such asgates or bumps (found near Harrison Park, but not on our

stretch) located in trouble spots would further help the differentcanal users get along safely.

All clubs also suffer from inadequate facilities. Some boathousesare without running water, toilets and showers. The SABCboathouse is 25 years old and no longer sufficient for our needs.

The small changing facilities cannot support our largemembership and are not suitable for juniors. We have nodisabled access to our toilets, showers or changing rooms. Anew boathouse that meets current statutory requirements andcan support our membership is a high priority.

We support a clearer strategy for development of the canal. Ithas served our club well for over 150 years. Our requirementshave changed in that time to meet with growing membership andmodern legislation.The main issues we would like to see addressed in the canalstrategy are:

Designation of a water sports area

Improved maintenance of the water sports stretch to keepit fit for purpose

Better management of tow path traffic

Better rowing facilities

INCLUDEDEnvironme

INCLUDEDas a water

Chris Collins Scottish WaterA number of existing water and waste water infrastructure assets(such as sewers and various operational / maintenance items)


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are located either under or adjacent to the canal.

As such it is essential that proposals for development considerthe potential impacts on such assets / infrastructure however this

will usually be addressed through our involvement as a statutoryconsultee to the planning application process.

Where a developer is in doubt, pre-application consultation anddiscussion at the earliest opportunity is advised in order toidentify and find solutions to any potential issues.

INCLUDEDDevelopm

section anClimate Ch

Tollcross Community CouncilIt would be appropriate to include encouragement to organisecycling/walking routes from residential areas further away fromthe canal to the canal corridor to improve sustainable transportoptions.

INCLUDEDenvironme

David Hunter Local residentThe Union Canal forms a valuable route for pedestrians andcyclists through west Edinburgh as well as supporting a widerange of recreational uses. There are good links between thetowpath and intersecting roads along its whole route, with oneexception - there is no access to the canal from the WalkerBridge at Polwarth. I believe that this is the only bridge inEdinburgh where there is no access to the canal. This effectivelydisenfranchises the whole Polwarth community from use of thecanal as a local amenity. Although it is clearly not an easy siteengineering-wise, I am sure that a design can be found to

provide this access and there must be other potential fundingpartners to contribute to costs (such as Sustrans).

INCLUDEDenvironme/ Developmsection

Mike Thomas - ResidentHere are some comments on the Canal Strategy Consultation


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For example much of the wood buffering is in a pretty bad state.

Access for people with special needs requires more attention. I'mthinking particularly of the barge trips provided by the Seagull

Trust. The condition of berthing areas makes getting on and offbarges trickier than it needs to be. Inconsistent heights have tobe allowed for in barge design. Access for emergency serviceneeds to be considered.

INCLUDEDenvironme

Peter Scott Planning ServicesThe Union Canal within Edinburgh is a vital walking and cyclingartery and all efforts should be made to enhance its roles inpromoting active and sustainable travel along the Canal corridorand through link routes to the Canal - including links to keyroutes, such as the National Cycle Network routes into/throughEdinburgh. Wherever possible the Canal towpath should be of

an appropriate width to sustain multiple use (i.e. walking, cyclingand use by wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, etc.) - i.e. aminimum width of 3m. Provision should be made for disabledpeople at key hub points - e.g. disabled parking, seats and'passing places' at short intervals.

The Union Canal in Edinburgh is an important cultural heritageresource. The Strategy should include proposals for innovativemeans of interpreting and showcasing the Canal's heritagethrough interpretive displays, sculptures/artwork and events.

The Strategy should include proposed arrangements for thelonger term maintenance of the Canal, towpaths and associatedfeatures, including ranger coverage and community involvementin the improvement, maintenance and environmental and visitormonitoring of the water/land corridor.

INCLUDEDenvironme

INCLUDEDsection

INCLUDEDenvironme


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Peng Lee Yap Local residentI received the above document by e mail: I thought it wasexcellent and the proposals sound quite exciting. However, may Iadd one small point that has not been mentioned specifically?

We walk on the Canal quite regularly to just beyond HarrisonGardens and always feel that it would be nice to have a coffee orsome soft drink in the Harrison Gardens area

At present, there is no such provision and it would enhance thatpart of the Canal greatly if such a public facility was set up. Thereis some parallel with the Meadows - I used to be involved in theFriends of the Meadows and there were no cafe facilities on theMeadows till the Friends of the Meadows pressed the Council tolease part of the Cricket Pavilion to a local person, who nowopens a cafe most days during Spring Autumn. Could there bea similar arrangement with some property that the Council owns

in the Harrison Park area?

INCLUDED

Yann Tessier Local ResidentI belong to the regular canal path cycle commuters. I made thechoice not to own a car, living in Bruntsfield and commuting toRiccarton.For me the primary value of the canal is to avoid car traffic andits risks. I believe there is also an advantage to car users havingone fewer bike on the streets (including when it comes toresidential parking). However this advantage can be offset in partby the issues of sharing a narrow towpath with other users

having other objectives.

Using the path for commuting (approx. 600x/year), I cannotafford to be virtually stopped each time I come across apedestrian. Safety has been 100% ensured in my 3-year


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experience through me taking the appropriate behaviour(anticipation, gentle bell warning, proper safety equipment).Safety should rely on other users adopting a responsible conductas well, such as having one's dog (or sometimes one's toddler!)

under control, walking in line where width barely allows 2 lanes,etc. Ideally clear rules should be set as to which lane should beused by pedestrians by default, and cyclists respectively. In aneven better world, there would be a towpath for cyclists (e.g. asecond one would be created on the other side of the canal).

To minimise encounters and the associated risks, I impose onmyself to wake up early and get to work around 0630 am. I mustsay this is a constraint, and would dream of a city wherein I couldcommute seamlessly and safely at any time...

I am conscious there is no ideal solution, but just wanted to voice

one story, in case some of your ideas can (even marginally) helpthe category of users I represent (and likely other users, throughthe peace brought by clear rules).

INCLUDEDenvironme

Ursula Adams (member of Craiglockhart CommunityCouncil)While the urban path going into the Edinburgh Centre is pleasantfor both cyclists and walkers, the two groups mixing on the samepath is not an ideal situation, many walkers avoiding the canalpath altogether, particularly if they have dogs, because thepeace is spoiled by constant cyclists, whether or not they use

their bells. Would it be possible to perhaps have a simple,spaced out, wooden "separation" which would separate the twogroups?

INCLUDEDenvironme

Spokes


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SPOKES welcomes the opportunity to comment on thisconsultation document.

The canal towpath is extensively used by cyclists for both

recreational and other journeys. Taken with the Colinton/Balernocycle path, which it links into, it provides opportunities for cyclingin an attractive and motor traffic free environment for longdistances from the centre of Edinburgh to the south westernedge. It is a considerable asset for both cyclists and thecommunity as a whole.

SPOKES has encouraged the BWB and Edinburgh Council topositively manage and develop the towpath for safe cycling forfamilies and others for over 30 years, well before it became morewidely recognised as an asset rather than just an industrial relic.The improvements in the surfacing have been an important step

forward in allowing full use to be made of its potential.

SPOKES believes that further improvements should beconsidered where possible, including:

1. creating more access points (especially in the sectionbetween Harrison Park and the canal basin);

2. improving existing access points to make them moreevenly graded for cyclists and other users;

3. installing low impact lighting as the towpath is extensivelyused

4. in the early evenings in winter and there is a particular

danger of collisions;5. improving any remaining stretches without a satisfactoryhard surface;

6. exploring the options for widening the towpath, forexample, between Ashley Terrace and the access point

INCLUDEDenvironme


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to the Colinton cycle path, by cutting back on thesurrounding vegetation.

SPOKES was pleased to learn that CEC has alreadycommissioned a study to identify options for improvements alongthe canal towpath including low impact lighting. We consider thatthe strategy should include a commitment to active considerationand implementation of a programme of improvements of the sortmentioned above.

SPOKES recognises that increasing use of the towpath by awide range of users has brought its own problems although theextent of these can easily be exaggerated. SPOKES supportsthe principle of courteous behaviour by all users including, butnot limited to, cyclists. Although SPOKES would be strongly

opposed to any attempts to single out cyclists for criticism, wewould be happy to contribute constructively to any guidance,information or code of practice that might be developed to helpprevent conflicts between users. We would also be happy toconsider disseminating any such advisory material to ourmembers in due course.

David J. HoodNo; and indeed the opportunities dont actually include theboating community, business or take cognisance of the actualcanal and boats as the central feature, strangely!

NOTED

Question 2

Can you identify where

Cockburn AssociationIn general, opportunities to enhance landscape, biodiversity andrecreation should be sought along all sections of the canal.


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Development should be contained within existing settlementsand should be subservient to the general environmental andrecreation requirements. Where new developments are

permitted they should be facing the canal, no newdevelopments should have their back to the canal and moreprominence should be given to low-rise developments.

Improved and more access points especially at existing bridgesis required to really open the canal up to as many people aspossible.

Opportunities for Brown tourist signage particularly at EdinburghQuay and Harrison Park should be explored.

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Scottish Natural HeritageSecuring existing canal side habitat is likely to be most

important in the urban areas and this can be addressed throughthe planning system.

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Historic ScotlandJoint working between Historic Scotland, British WaterwaysScotland and other interested parties could help to achievebetter promotion of the heritage value of the canal.

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the opportunities can bestbe realised or achieved?

David J. HoodGreater encouragement, nurturing and perhaps funding / in-kindsupport to cooperatives and 'user Joint Ventures

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Question 3

Can you identify anyissues in achieving theseopportunities, for example

Cockburn AssociationPriority should be given to the landscape, biodiversity andrecreational opportunities of the canal strategy. Decision makingfor development should give greater weight to these priorities,including the protection of the Green Belt through which much of

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the canal passes. The 2nd and 3rd bullets dealing with thevisual connections of the canal and its appeal for tourism arevery important. These should not be compromised by overdevelopment of the canal side or visual clutter. All development

should be of a high visual standard.

There will be conflicts with Developers in stipulating the aspectand height of properties. Developers should contribute to thecanal and towpaths ongoing upgrade and maintenance andmust be constrained in the type of buildings they are allowed.

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Scottish Natural HeritageThere can be conflicts where adjacent householders purchasesmall pockets of land at the canal side and canal habitat is lostto gardens. Again this is predominantly in urban areas.

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Historic ScotlandIncreased development of the canal as a result of the strategy

could present issues for its status as a scheduled monument.For this reason there is a need for understanding of its historicvalue and early consultation with Historic Scotland would beadvantageous for new proposals which may have a physicalimpact on the monument or which may impact upon its setting.

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where they may beconflicts?

Lynn GrattageThe more you have different users, the more conflict withwalkers, cyclists, etc. But this can be minimised by carefullandscaping, and having marked cycle lanes around areaswhich have things going on.

More about conflicts though you are probably already aware:

There are already conflicts in use of the tow path. I use the towpath for cycling, walking, walking with dogs, and lately skiing!One thing which is really annoying (particularly as a cyclist

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myself), is the irresponsible behaviour of some cyclists,principally cycling past other users too fast. I hear stories ofcyclists being pushed into the canal which could be due toannoyance at cyclists behaviour. Some cyclists are not aware

they need to warn dogs as well as humans of their presence.There are speed limit signs on the side of the canal nearer thetown centre, but I dont know if these are for cyclists or boats(boats I think). Perhaps signs / speed limits for cyclists wouldbe good.

One important area to mention is the Aqueduct over the water ofLeith. There is a sign telling cyclists to dismount. Most(including myself), do not dismount as this makes it even moredifficult to pass another user due to the narrow space. Actually,people are always really considerate in my experience in thisarea, despite it being very busy.

The tow path has become very busy with cyclists, particularlyduring rush hour times, as it is such a fantastic traffic freecorridor, and I have to say, it is one of the highlights for me ofgoing to work as it is beautiful cycling along the canal, whateverthe weather. A major way for the council to relieve the pressurethis causes on the tow path is to create / enable more traffic freecycle routes to town for commuters, as it shows how manypeople would commute by bike if they thought it was safe.

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David J. Hood- good use v 'over-use'- commercial v public- planning 'anal-ness' (sorry!) v ensuring all in concert- using the canal and its environs to full capacity v overuse /

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overlap (e.g. same day, different use on the day etc)

Cockburn Association

The guiding principles for canal waterway sustainability shouldbe derived from the Brundlandt definition of sustainabledevelopment (Our Common Future, 1983)development that meets the needs of the present withoutcompromising the ability of future generations to meet their ownneedsat a minimum, sustainable development must not endanger thenatural systems that support life on earth: the atmosphere, thewaters, the soils and the living beings

Developers and property owners as well as users of the canal interms of boat/canoe/fisherman should all contribute in the

upkeep of the canal through fees, charges and planning gain.Cyclists/walkers should contribute through Sustrans who will bedeveloping the route.

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Tollcross Community CouncilWe feel that more weight should be given to the suggestion thata balance between mobile and static commercial boats shouldbe in favour of mobile boats. There is an aspiration to keep thewaterway as a vibrant, used facility and as there is a shortage ofmoorings for boaters who wish to visit, then we feel that spaceat the end of the canal should not be limited by more than a few

permanently moored boats. This may well be against theinterests of British Waterways but in the interests of canal users.

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Question 4

How can we achieve asustainable canalwaterway?

David J. HoodEnsure that everyone involved is working in concert; this is notthe case currently. Success to date has relied upon individual

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actions and in spite of, not due to, inertia and bureaucracy; Q4is too difficult to fully do justice with an answer: there arefundamental problems with non-inclusion, fiefdoms, 'stalling' anduncertainty to overcome first.

Cockburn AssociationThe canal strategy should seek to implement the Brundlandtdefinition of sustainability. A particular concern for futuregenerations will be how to deal with climate change issues andthis should form part of the strategy e.g.

seek zero CO2 emissions from powered boats onthe canal.

promote tree and shrub planting to sequestercarbon.

protect high quality soils from development, whichwill be needed for food production by futuregenerations.

The Canal strategy should bring together stakeholders as theway forward. All those that have an interest must berepresented as they ultimately will be required to make thestrategy sustainable.

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Question 5

What role should a canalstrategy have in helpingto achieve this?

David J. HoodShould alleviate the above and lead to ensuring a common andinclusive approach; vision needs to be matched by willingness,

real intent and funding!

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through better tourist type signage, more and better access,more interpretation and explanation points explaining how thecanal fits in with other Scottish Waterway and other initiativessuch as Sustrans, Garden City and planning along the canal

side in general.

environmeHow can we improve therole of the Union Canaland Edinburgh within thewider Scottish Waterway

Initiatives?David J. HoodMake Edinburgh Quay and the other stop-off points truedestinations as opposed to just temporary 'drop off points' or aterminus.

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Cockburn AssociationDesign should follow what is considered best practice fromelsewhere, appropriate signage and lighting is essential, furtherand better biodiversity issues require to be addressed i.e. moreplanting of trees, bushes etc. Building proposed must fit in withwhat is already there and not detract from the canal. Thoseliving by the canal must be part of the canal and not shut off byhigh fences or hedges. More hard and soft landscaping isrequired particularly in the Wester Hailes area. Safety must be akey feature in any design guidelines for all users of the canal.

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Question 7

What design guidelinesshould the strategypropose to ensure canalside developments relateto and enhance the localidentity of the waterway inthe City?

Scottish Natural HeritageThe principles listed are all important in maintaining the settingof the canal side and connectivity with the canal s

cec canal strategy consultation

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