Strategic Policy Framework
Scotland's Canals: An Asset for the Future, published in 2002, is a key policy document, setting out the strategic policy framework for British Waterways in Scotland, as well as details of how the Scottish Executive expects this policy to be delivered.
The Scottish Executive believes that our canals are an asset that, if used wisely, can enhance the future quality of life in Scotland. We can do this by:
- Increasing awareness and appreciation of our canal network; and
- Recognising the roles that canals can play in delivering wider policy objectives
Our strategy is based on five principles:
- Increasing awareness of canals in general and encouraging more private sector investment.
- Encouraging all public bodies sponsored by the Executive and local authorities to continue to work together and support the sustainable development and regeneration of the canals and their surrounding areas.
- Promoting voluntary sector and community involvement in canals, with particular regard to their educational value and their positive impact on quality of life.
- Promoting the need for other decisions to take account of the canals' sustainable development and regeneration aims.
- British Waterways will continue to receive Scottish Executive grants to maintain its statutory duties and help progress new initiatives. They are encouraged to develop new and existing sources of income.