First foot forward on Stockingfield Bridge

The construction phase of a new £13.7m landmark active travel bridge across the Forth & Clyde Canal has now concluded and is on track to open in September, completing Scotland's National Walking and Cycling Network through the Lowland Canals.

The ambitious project will use enhanced infrastructure as a catalyst for community regeneration, bringing together three Glaswegian neighbourhoods, creating active travel networks and new recreational space to attract visitors.

To mark the occasion, Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants' Rights, Patrick Harvie MSP joined two local families to be the first to cross Stockingfield Bridge and reconnect the communities.

Key project partners, including representatives from Scottish Canals, Sustrans, Glasgow City Council and Balfour Beatty were also in attendance for the first crossing.

For the first time since the waterway's opening in 1790, Stockingfield Bridge will connect the communities of Maryhill, Gilshochill, and Ruchill in North Glasgow. The bridge, which is a significant piece of national infrastructure, also serves as the final link in the canal towpath, offering a continuous active travel route along the whole length of the canal from Bowling on the Clyde to Edinburgh in the east via the Union Canal.

Minister for Active Travel Patrick Harvie said “It’s fantastic to see the Stockingfield Bridge take final shape and reconnect communities across the north of Glasgow."

Minister Harvie continued: “The Scottish Government has provided over £13 million to deliver this project because it unlocks real change in the opportunities that people will have to travel more actively – improving health, wellbeing and protecting our environment.

“I want to see similar transformation in communities across Scotland. That’s why the Scottish Government has now committed to investing at least £320 million, or 10% of the total transport budget on active travel by 2024-25. Through this record investment, we’ll help build a more active nation, where more people enjoy greater opportunities to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys.”

The project has been accelerated through SCAPE Scotland’s civil engineering framework which allows contracting authorities to access specialist knowledge and skills through a direct award tender, fully compliant with Scottish regulations, saving the time and money from an open-tender process. Delivered by Scottish Canals through Sustrans and Glasgow City Council’s Vacant Derelict Land Fund, including funding from the Scottish Government, the project will reconnect North Glasgow neighbourhoods through the traditional artery of the canal towpath.

Funding has been allocated to support groundwork initiatives along the towpath, including a new recreational space and the delivery of 8 community artwork installations which celebrate the proud industrial history of the area.

All of the artworks have a local link along with community participation. They range from sculptures commemorating the area's industrial background to ceramic mosaics created by the community and metalwork honouring the role of disabled people in North Glasgow.

Richard Millar, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Canals, said "This iconic new structure is a major investment and a symbol of change for North Glasgow, continuing the canal regeneration programme that has unlocked millions of pounds of investment, it completes the city to city and sea to sea Lowland Canal towpath.

Richard continued: “For the first time, locals will be able to move effortlessly from these three communities to the city centre and the west end, providing new access to amenities, services, and employment possibilities. The project's community-led art element will make Stockingfield a completely new destination, attracting new people to visit and raising the reputation of this section of the city to new heights."

Stockingfield Bridge will greatly boost active travel alternatives for people travelling about the city, making a walking or wheeling commute to work a viable and enjoyable experience. In 2021, Glasgow Caledonian University published a research that found canal side regeneration projects like Stockingfield Bridge had a favourable impact on public health and can lower the risk of chronic health issues by up to 15%.

Karen continued: “Not only does this new connection create a safe and convenient active travel route between Ruchill, Gilshochill, Maryhill and on to the west end and city centre, it opens up a scenic setting for residents and visitors in the area to relax and enjoy what the Forth and Clyde Canal has to offer.”

Stockingfield Bridge will be completed and opened during the 200th anniversary of the Union and Caledonian canals, which have endured the test of time. Stockingfield Bridge ushers in a new era for Scotland's inland waterways, one that prioritises active travel, health, and community.

Councillor Kelly said “In recent years, projects on or close to the banks of the Canal have transformed the area, to make it a far more attractive place to use and visit. We were delighted to support the Stockingfield Bridge project, a key development for this part of the city, through the Vacant and Derelict Land Fund.”

To keep up to date with the latest developments and the plans for the opening of Stockingfield Bridge follow Scottish Canals on social media.