Enhancements at Canalside in West Edinburgh are streamlining local travels
In West Edinburgh, the recent improvements made to the Union Canal towpath have significantly boosted walking, cycling, and wheelchair accessibility along a key section between Leamington Lift Bridge and Edinburgh Quay [1][2]. Led by Scottish Canals in partnership with Sustrans, this project has brought about numerous benefits for the local community.
Key improvements include:
- A smooth, fully accessible surface: The towpath previously had a rough and uneven surface that made cycling and wheelchair use difficult. The project installed Scottish whin stone paving, creating a smooth new surface accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users alike [1][2].
- Improved safety and usability: Additional lighting was installed to enhance visibility, especially in the darker winter months, making the route feel safer and more welcoming to all users year-round [1][2].
- Connection to National Cycle Network Route 75: This upgraded towpath forms a critical traffic-free active travel link connecting West Edinburgh with the city centre, encouraging more local people to use sustainable transport options for everyday journeys [1][2].
- Support for electric watercraft: Installation of new power bollards provides charging points for electric boats, aligning with Scottish Canals’ net zero goals and future-proofing the area [1].
- Encouragement of active travel benefits: Improved towpath infrastructure supports saving money, healthier lifestyles, and emission reductions by promoting walking, wheeling, and cycling instead of car travel [2].
The improvements, funded with over £900,000 from the Scottish Government, were officially opened on Cycle to Work Day 2025 and aim to boost year-round accessibility and active travel uptake in the local community [1][2].
Many residents, such as Rowan and Roxanne, have welcomed the changes. Rowan, a local resident, uses the towpath to cycle his children to and from town, while Roxanne appreciates the smoother connection for her regular walks.
The project also addresses the needs of 72% of Edinburgh residents who expressed a preference for more traffic-free cycle paths away from roads, such as through parks or along waterways like the Union Canal [2]. The improvements aim to future-proof the area for the coming years, ensuring that it continues to cater to the needs of the local community.
This project exemplifies a strategic investment to enhance inclusive and sustainable transport infrastructure in Edinburgh, encouraging active travel and promoting a healthier, more environmentally friendly city.
[1] Scottish Canals Press Release
[2] Walking and Cycling Index Report
- The upgrades to the Union Canal towpath in West Edinburgh, which connect to National Cycle Network Route 75, have not only improved safety and usability but also extended the possibilities of home-and-garden lifestyle for locals by encouraging active travel like cycling, thus promoting a healthier and more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
- With the success of the Union Canal towpath project, residents like Rowan and Roxanne are now enjoying the lifestyle benefits of travel as they can access home-and-garden locations, such as town and parks, more effortlessly and sustainably, thanks to the new active travel links created by the upgraded towpath.
