This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Caledonian Canal
26/05/2006
The potential for freight to be transported on the Caledonian canal between Inverness and Fort William has been identified in a feasibility study which demonstrated that a 1,000 tonne vessel could successfully navigate the route.
Transport Minister Tavish Scott said:
"Successful trials show that freight travelling between Inverness and Fort William on the already congested A82 could in the future sail along the Caledonian canal.
"Now that we have helped assure the canal's long-term future we need to consider how we can maximise the opportunities this important waterway provides.
"With its more obvious leisure and tourism benefits, there is real potential for the reintroduction of freight on the canal, helping remove lorry miles from congested Highland roads."
The Executive provided approximately £20,000 to KD Marine to undertake a feasibility study including taking a 1,000 tonne vessel through the Caledonian canal late last year.
Subsequent to the trial, there have been a number of meetings between the Executive, British Waterways and other interested parties to explore options for transporting freight on the canal. These include the movement of timber and the possibility of supplying the Glendoe power station construction site beside Loch Ness.