Item no Report no
Edinburgh Canal Strategy: Draft for consultation
Planning Committee 19 May 2011
1 Purpose of report
1.1 To seek the Committee's approval of the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy for consultation.
2 Summary
2.1 The Council and British Waterways (Scotland) (BWS) have prepared a draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy (ECS) for consultation purposes. The draft ECS identifies on and off canal moorings sites, opportunities for complementary canal-side developments and opportunities to ensure that the recreational potential of the canal is fully maximised for the benefit of canal user groups and the wider community.
2.2 The strategy has been prepared following a consultation exercise and it is proposed that a further consultation exercise is undertaken on the consultative draft over the summer. The finalised strategy will be reported to Planning Committee later in the year.
3 Main report
Background
3.1 In early 2010, the Edinburgh Canal Development Group initiated the preparation of a strategy for that part of Union Canal that lies within the City’s administrative boundaries. A series of focus group meetings followed with local and community councillors, the canal community user groups and stakeholder bodies such as SEPA and Sustrans, which led to the to preparation of an Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Document in September 2010. The purpose of the Consultation Document was to discuss opportunities to make the canal into a recognisable place whilst identifying issues to be taken forward in the Strategy. The consultation document was approved by the Planning Committee on 30 September 2010. Following the consultation, the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy was prepared and is now attached as Appendix 1 to this report. 1
Pre–draft consultation
3.2 The aim of the pre-draft consultation exercise was to explore the relevant canal opportunities and issues with a range of stakeholders prior to the development of the draft ECS whilst promoting community involvement in the current and future use of the Union Canal. The ECS Consultation Document set out a series of opportunities for development and proposes a development strategy based on five ‘hubs’.
3.3 Between October and December 2010 a number of consultation events were held in Ratho (3 November), Wester Hailes (17 November), Polwarth (22 November) and Tollcross (24 November) as well as drop in session on the Re- union Canal boat at Lochrin Basin and Harrison Park (20 November). These sessions were attended by local communities, local and community councillors, key interest groups, including St Andrews Boat Club, Reunion and Spokes, and stakeholder 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 statutory consultees, inviting comments on a series of set questions. Hard copies of the consultation document were made available on request.
3.5 The consultation was advertised on the Council’s website and via Twitter as well 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 2
• Tollcross Community Council and, • 11 local residents.
3.7 The comments received are summarised in Appendix 2 with the recommended response. A note of the workshops held in Ratho, Wester Hailes, Polwarth and Tollcross is also provided in Appendix 3. These responses have formed the basis of the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy.
Partners
3.8 BWS has collaborated with the Council to produce the draft ECS. The draft ECS has also benefited from an input from a number of key partners including Architecture 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 canal’s history and heritage, planning and development policies, movement and connectivity and existing community and tourism resources;
• A series of proposed opportunities which will make the canal into a recognisable 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 whole length of the canal and cover issues such as access, lighting, canal moorings, public art and renewable energy. The proposed opportunities have been grouped 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 out for discussion as part of the consultation. These opportunities include projects such as:
• A canal user management strategy;
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• Towpath capacity management including designation of additional cycle routes and a commuter and tourist taxi boat service; • Towpath access improvements and a ‘pinch point strategy’ (see appendix 1 to the draft strategy); • Canal development and canal environment principles as well as a number of 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 canal moorings, canal-side and canal-related development can be focused. Through the development of ‘hubs’ it should be possible to create a desirable and sustainable waterway corridor, stimulating waterway and waterside use. Each hub has a proposed function related to its current character and future proposed use. The aim is to create five successful and sustainable places. The Strategy has identified five hubs at:
• Ratho • Wester Hailes • Meggetland • Harrison Park • Lochrin Basin
3.13 The draft ECS also recognises the canal’s links with Bathgate and Linlithgow within West Lothian and their role in facilitating use of the Union Canal within Edinburgh.
3.14 In terms of the waterway strategy, the draft ECS has been designed to ensure that boaters are presented with a suitable waterway infrastructure that enables and 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 is proposed 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 the full length of waterway corridor is animated by waterway traffic, ensuring that the waterspace at Lochrin Basin is populated and animated by a healthy waterway community.
Consultation
3.15 It is proposed to undertake a public consultation exercise based on the draft ECS. 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 Strategy and consider the hubs in are the right place, have the right objectives and the potential to develop as places;
• gather views on increasing the use of the water space along the canal through increased moorings (of all types including residential);
• gather thoughts on the canal-side development proposals identified within the draft strategy;
• consider whether key problem access points along the canal have been identified correctly; and,
• consider whether anything is missing from the Strategy or should be removed.
3.16 Consultation events will be held throughout June and July 2011 and include:
• Presentations to the local Community Councils in Ratho (20 June), Wester Hailes (tbc), Longstone (8 August), Craiglockhart (31 May), Merchiston (tbc), and Tollcross (8 June);
• Display stands at a number of community events including the Edinburgh Canal Festival (9 July), and the Meadows festival (4/5 June); the Edinburgh Bike Breakfast (22 June) and the Central Scotland Green Network forum (14 June); and,
• Further community meetings within the five hubs (Lochrin Basin, Harrison Park, 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 the Council’s website. It is anticipated that a finalised Edinburgh Canal Strategy, together with the results of the consultation exercise will be reported to Planning Committee by the end of 2011.
Strategic Environmental Assessment
3.18 A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy is required under the SEA Directive. This is intended to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans with a view to promoting sustainable development. An Environmental Scoping Report has been prepared. The interim Environmental Report (background paper) will be the subject of consultation alongside the draft Strategy and will be submitted to the Consultation Authorities (Historic Scotland, SNH and SEPA). The outcomes 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 within the revenue budget for 2011-12. There are no other financial implications for the Council arising from this report.
5 Equalities Impact
5.1 There is no relationship between the matters described in this report and the public 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 comment alongside the draft ECS. The outcomes of this exercise will inform the preparation of the final strategy. There are no adverse environmental impacts anticipated.
7 Conclusions
7.1 The Council and BWS have prepared a draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy for consultation 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 Canal Strategy is being made available for wider public consultation. The draft strategy 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 the document prior to consultation; and
c) Refers this report to Economic Development Committee for information.
Dave Anderson Director of City Development
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Appendices Appendix 1: Draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy Appendix 2: Pre-draft Consultation comments and responses Appendix 3: Pre-draft Consultation Workshops
Contact/tel/Email Kate Hopper (0131) 529 6232 [email protected] Craig Wood (0131) 529 3904 [email protected]
Wards affected 2, 7, 9
Single Outcome Supports National Outcome 1: We live in a Scotland that is the most attractive Agreement place for doing business in Europe.
Supports Edinburgh Outcomes: Edinburgh is a thriving, growing city with a high quality of life and environment and a prosperous economy.
Supports Edinburgh Outcome: Edinburgh is an internationally competitive business location that attracts talent and investment to its growing knowledge-based economy.
Supports Edinburgh Outcome: Edinburgh is the UK’s top performing tourist destination outside of London.
Supports National Outcome I0: We live in well-designed, sustainable places where we are able to access the amenities and services we need.
Supports National Outcome 12: We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations
Supports Edinburgh Outcome: Edinburgh's natural and built environment is supported and enhanced.
Background 1 Report to Planning Committee 'The Edinburgh Canal Development Papers Strategy' 28 February 2008
2 Report to Planning Committee 'The Edinburgh Canal Development Strategy – Update on Progress' 3 December 2009
3 Report to Planning Committee ‘Edinburgh Canal Strategy – Consultation Document’ 30 September 2010
4 Interim Environmental Report – 19 May 2011
5 Draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy – Appendix 1 – Access Improvements
KH/FK/PLANCOM/Edinburgh Canal Strategy 10 May 2011
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The Edinburgh Canal Strategy CONSULTATION DRAFT
MAY 2011
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Section 1 - Introduction
Background 4 ince it’s re-birth as part of the Millennium Link Project the Union Canal has come a long way from a derelict S backwater to become one of Edinburgh’s most important heritage, recreational and community assets. The Strategy 5 ection urrent ontext The Union Canal is now enjoyed on a daily basis by people from across The City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) and British Waterways Scotland S 2 – C C the city and beyond for a variety of uses such as boating, rowing, walking, (BWS) have prepared this draft strategy for the Union Canal within the Scotland’s Canals and The Union Canal In Edinburgh 9 cycling and fishing. Edinburgh area to guide its development. History and Heritage 10 The Union Canal is also a focus for new development, particularly at The Strategy now sets out opportunities for discussion with the wider Fountainbridge, for new canal boat moorings and marina’s and for canal- community through a period of public consultation; at the end of which Planning and Development 11 focused community activities. However, as the canal is developed, it must CEC and BWS hope to promote a vision of the place we wish the Union Movement and Connectivity 13 also be protected and its potential maximised for the for the benefit of Canal to be. the wider community and environment. Community and Tourism 14
Section 3 – Opportunities
Access / Canal Environment 16
Waterway / Development / Environment 17
Recreation / Tourism 18 The Union Canal is one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems. “ We hope this Strategy will allow more of our citizens Infrastructure / drainage / climate change 19 to appreciate and benefit from its beauty as well as the Section 4 – The Strategy economic development potential it provides.” Hubs and Waterway Strategy 22 Councillor Tim McKay, Edinburgh Canal Champion Ratho 24
Wester Hailes 26 we are delighted to be part of the emerging Edinburgh Meggetland 28 “ Canal Strategy led by the City of Edinburgh Council. We look forward to working in partnership with the Council Harrison Park 30
and other city stakeholders to ensure that this exciting Lochrin Basin 32 initiative generates the maximum benefiit for canalside Section 5 – Consultation communities and the capital as a whole” Consultation Information 35 Steve Dunlop, Direcor, British Waterways (Scotland) Contents
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 3 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Background
he development of a strategy for the Union Canal within Edinburgh was initiated by T 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.
4 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
The Strategy
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 five ‘hub’ within which canal moorings, canalside and canal related development can be focused.
It is recognised that there is an opportunity at The Edinburgh Canal Quarter identifies the Lochrin Basin needs to generate adequate Edinburgh end of the Union canal and stretches Ratho to enhance the recreational potential of the waterway traffic to animate the waterspace. High Canal, building on the Edinburgh Canal Centre, links from Harrison Park in the west to Edinburgh quality visitor moorings should be complimented with the Ratho Adventure centre and its position as Quay. This includes the range of existing and new by commercial and residential moorings to create an overnight mooring point between Linlithgow and uses and developments coming forward, linked a vibrant sustainable waterway neighbourhood Edinburgh. by new water space, and high quality public throughout the year. realm, in a linear route to the City Centre.
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is home to a number of boathouses Within Wester Hailes the key aim is to stimulate Meggetland and it is envisaged that this area could become a a range of canal-side, recreational, business, and centre of excellence for watersports on the canal for community uses whilst marking the arrival of canal both rowing and paddlesports. users into Edinburgh.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 5 www.photosofedinburgh.co.uk
Lochrin Basin © Grant Ritchie www.photosofedinburgh.co.uk The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft Current Context
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 7
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Scotland’s Canals
Scotland’s canal network is over 200 years old and travels for 137 miles from Loch Ness in the north to Fort William and Glasgow in the west, via Falkirk to Edinburgh in the East. The Scottish canal network is a national and international asset, not just for its recreational value, but as for its important industrial heritage.
The Scottish canal network is made up of 5 canals, in the Highlands - the Caledonian and the Crinan, and in the Lowlands - the Monkland, the Forth and Clyde and the Edinburgh and Glasgow Union, known more simply as The Union Canal.
The Union Canal In Edinburgh
The Union Canal in Edinburgh runs for 16km between and through the communities of Ratho, Wester Hailes, Longstone, Craiglockhart, Merchiston, Polwarth and Tollcross, terminating at Fountainbridge in the city centre. The canal also passes Harrison Park, Meggetland and Hailes Park, and crosses over the Water of Leith via the 180m long Slateford Aqueduct.
The Union Canal is not just a heritage asset for Edinburgh, but also a navigable waterway for boating, an important wildlife habitat, a walking, jpgging and cycling route, and a focus for new canal side development and for local community use.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 9 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
History and Heritage
he Union Canal, the last of Scotland’s major canals, was a commercial venture begun in 1818 and completed in T 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 In 2002, Britain’s largest canal restoration project, The Millennium Link, Baird, the 31.5 mile Union Canal restored navigation, and with an extension to the Union Canal and a link was built in only 4 years between with the Forth & Clyde Canal through the Falkirk Wheel, boats were once 1818 and 1822 at a cost of more able to travel between Edinburgh and Glasgow. £461,760 – twice its initial estimate. The Union Canal is a significant industrial heritage asset not just for the The Canal was built using picks, city, but nationally and internationally and is recognised as such by its shovels and wheelbarrows by scheduled ancient monument status. Port Hopetoun, Union Canal, Edinburgh,. labourers known as navigators – © Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland; Licensor www.scran.ac.uk ‘navvies’. Many immigrants came The Union Canal was built as a ‘contour canal’ - it follows a 73m contour Port Hopetoun from Ireland to work on the canal throughout its length. The canal has no locks; instead it travels over three including notably William Burke aqueducts, including the second largest aqueduct in Britain - the Avon Port Hopetoun formed the eastern terminus of the canal at Lothian and William Hare. Aqueduct by Linlithgow, Slateford Aqueduct that takes the canal over Road. At the height of the canal trade in the mid-19th century Port the Water of Leith in Edinburgh and the Almond Aqueduct near Ratho. Hopetoun was a busy port, employing a large workforce of dockers to The canal was officially opened in May 1822, the first boat to make the unload the barges that brought coal, timber, stone, slate, brick, sand and complete journey by water bringing flagstones from Denny to Port The canal also passes through the oldest and longest canal tunnel in lime into Edinburgh from the west. It was also the departure point for Hopetoun. However, within 20 years of completion most of its passenger Scotland - the 631m Falkirk Tunnel. At the Edinburgh end, the Leamington the fast passenger boats that ran day and night between Edinburgh and traffic was lost to the railways, and the Edinburgh basins closed in 1922. lift bridge can be found at Fountainbridge. This hydraulic bridge was built Glasgow, and the cattle boats that followed the same route. The rest of the canal remained navigational until 1965 when it was finally in 1906 by Armstrong of Newcastle and was refurbished and re-opened closed by an Act of Parliament. as part of the Millennium Link Project in 2002. 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 Scheduled Ancient Monuments Lift Bridge 1922, and a new terminus, Lochrin Basin, established on the south side 1 Union Canal of Fountainbridge. 2 Craigpark Quarry 3 Baberton Mains 4 Colinton Castle
1 Aqueduct Aqueduct 2 5
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4 Port Hopetoun from Lothian Road/Fountainbridge during infill of basin © Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland; Licensor www.scran.ac.uk 10 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Planning and Development
The Millennium Link Project Fountainbridge Development Brief Edinburgh Quay
Plans for reconnecting the Union Canal with the Forth and Clyde Canal The Fountainbridge Development Brief was approved by The City of Edinburgh Quay was the first significant commercial ‘The Millennium Link project’ was launched by British Waterways in 1994, Edinburgh Council in 2004 and amended in 2005. The Brief set out the development to take advantage of the reopening with funding secured in 1997. planning context for the Edinburgh end of the Union Canal following the canal, built on a largely derelict land at the canal’s closure of Fountain Brewery by Scottish and Newcastle. Edinburgh terminus at Lochrin Basin. As part of the The £84.5 million pound project started in March 1999 and included a development more than 5500sqm of office space has number of significant engineering projects including on the Union Canal The purpose of the brief was to establish a comprehensive townscape been created in the last five years. There has also been a new section of canal at Wester Hailes, the diversion of the canal by the and infrastructure framework for the Fountainbridge area. The brief sets a significant level of residential and student housing M8 motorway and a new bridge, the reopening of the Leamington Lift outs the main planning and design principles on which development in development around the canal at Leamington Wharf Bridge and the joining together of the two canals by the Falkirk Wheel. the area will be based, and seeks to maximise the benefits of regeneration and Fountain North as part of the Fountainbridge for local communities and the City as a whole. The development brief The Union Canal was officially reopened in 2001, with the Millennium redevelopment. covers 32.5 hectares and a wide range of uses. Link completed with the opening of the Falkirk Wheel by HRH The Queen There is still a significant amount of derelict land at and The Duke of Edinburgh in May 2002 marking the completion of the Fountainbridge. The remainder of the Fountainbridge project. site is currently under consideration as part of a planning application
Planning Policy
The Edinburgh City Local Plan 2010 recognises that the restored canal The canal waterway network is a nationally significant asset with considerable potential for recreational use and canal related development. However, proposals Traditionally canals were navigated by canal boats or have to take account of its interest as a scheduled ancient monument ‘narrow boats’ designed to carry goods on the narrow and its importance for wildlife. canals. Larger wider boats such as ‘barges’ were also used. Today, many of these boats can still be seen The Plan recognises that there is potential for development within the moored at Lochrin Basin or along the canal banks at urban area, and include most importantly sites around the terminal Harrison Park and Ratho. basin at Fountainbridge, indentifed by the Plan as one of its Central Area proposals (CA 3) and covered by the Fountainbridge Development Brief. There are many types of moorings available on Other urban area locations with special potential are Wester Hailes and the Union Canal, including long term moorings Harrison Park, but recognises that any feasible proposal will need to be (otherwise known as home moorings) used for the the subject of consultation with local communities. general berthing of a boat, visitor moorings for those taking a holiday on the canal, commercial moorings The Plan highlights that development adjoining the canal should focus for restaurants and offices, and residential moorings on the canal, by providing active frontages and a diversity of uses and for people who wish to live permanently on a boat. by enhancing access for pedestrians and cyclists to the canal. Attention should also be paid to its nature conservation value.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 11 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Environment and Biodiversity
he Union Canal is one of Edinburgh’s most important wildlife corridors. Contained within a narrow strip The canal stretches through both rural and urban areas, linking adjacent T of waterway and towing path one can find an astonishing range of different habitats, from slow flowing woodlands, species rich grasslands and other watercourses, and allowing relatively easy movement through often otherwise hostile and more intensively freshwater with its adjacent reed fringe to grassland, hedgerow and woodland. Since closure the canal has managed surrounding land. For these reasons the canal is identified as a Local developed a diverse aquatic and emergent fringe flora. Nature Conservation Site (LNCS). All of the Union Canal receives protection from development in relevant local plans.
Edinburgh Local Biodiversity Action Plan (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 identified for its important function in the city, providing semi-natural habitat and commuting corridors for wildlife, as well as recreation and amenity benefits. 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 Edinburgh’s 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 Edinburgh’s wetland habitats.
The EBLAP identifies that the Edinburgh Canal Strategy should include objectives for biodiversity enhancement.
Habitats and species Environment and Biodiversity Union Canal The Union canal environment includes a wide range of associated fauna Green Corridor including ten different fish species, dragonflies, damselflies and other Green Belt invertebrates, wetland birds, bats, badgers, seed eating birds, bees, otters Public Parks Urban Woodland and water voles.
In terms of habitats, these include the diverse water’s edge and towpath grasslands. The boundary habitats of hedges and stone walls offer 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 canal’s bridges, aqueducts and buildings, is also important habitat for bats.
12 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Movement and Connectivity
hilst the Union Canal towpath was once used by horses, attached to canal boats to pull them along the water, W it is now a popular walking and cycling route. Around seven million people use the canal’s towpath annually, ranging from running to walking the dog.
Cycling and walking Movement and Connectivity The towpath connects Edinburgh to Kirkintilloch and the Bowling Basin Union Canal Walking /Cycle route on the west coast of Scotland via the Forth and Clyde canal to Edinburgh. Rail line and stations The towpath forms part of the 106km cycle route NCN 754 and ‘Forth to Bus Routes 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 traffic-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.
Boating on the 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 Johnston’s Boat-houses at Port Hopetoun, then the eastern terminal basin of the canal.
The oldest rowing club on the canal, St Andrew’s 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.
Johnston’s Boat-houses, Today, the St Andrew’s Rowing Club, George Watson’s Rowing Club, Lochrin Basin. ©Royal Commission on the Ancient and Heriot’s Rowing Club and Edinburgh University Rowing Clubs as well as Historical Monuments of Scotland; Licensor www.scran.ac.uk. the Forth Canoe Club are all based on the Union Canal at Meggetland and by Harrison Park.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 13 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Community and Tourism
The Edinburgh Canal Festival Re-union Seagull Trust Cruises
The annual Edinburgh Canal Festival, held at Re-Union Canal Boats is a social enterprise operating a widebeam canal The Seagull Trust was formed in 1978 to provide free canal cruising for Edinburgh Quay in June, offers an opportunity boat from Edinburgh Quay. Re-Union work with volunteers from all disabled people and to help revitalise the decaying Scottish Lowland for people of all ages to experience at first hand walks of life and offer crew training through the NCBA and the RYA which Waterways. the appeal of the Union Canal. Organised by Re- allows their volunteers to operate a 35 passenger carrying boat to cruise In 1997 Seagull Trust Cruises was formed as a Company Limited by union and sponsored by The City of Edinburgh the Union Canal. The boat offers a unique, fully accessible, venue and is Guarantee to simplify some of the operational functions of the Trust. At Council and British Waterways the festival hosts available for community, corporate and private hire. the end of October 2007 the Seagull Trust was disbanded leaving the the Edinburgh Raft Race, free boat and canoe Re-Union also work with communities along the Union Canal and Company to manage the operation of the cruising programme. Initially trips, a wee boat flotilla, bands, an canal art manage canoe building programmes, supported the development of cruises ran from Ratho on the Union Canal but there are now a total exhibition, stalls and performers. Edinburgh Quay Bridge 8 canoe club, host a floating youth club, planted an orchard and of four branches located in Scotland on the Union, Forth & Clyde and Lochrin basin at Edinburgh Quay has also been an Edinburgh festival is working on the Calders Community Garden development. Caledonian Canals. venue, including hosting parties for the 2003 and 2007 Edinburgh Film Re-Union also co-ordinate canal based events and carry out regular The Seagull trust currently operate two boats from their base by The Festival. community consultations. All of these activities are designed to Bridge Inn at Ratho - the Mackay Seagull and the St John Crusader II Community encourage positive engagement with the community resource that is which both carry a maximum of 12 people. the Union Canal. 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 official Millennium Link partners involved in the reopening of the Union Canal in 2001 and was involved in the first 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.
Ashley Terrace Boathouse © Grant Ritchie 14 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft Opportunities
he development of a strategy for the Union Canal within Edinburgh T 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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 15 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Access / Canal Environment
he Union Canal is an important resource for the city. It is used both as a walking and cycling commuter T route, for informal leisure activities, and for boating, rowing and canoeing. The canal corridor also helps connect canalside communities with the wider city. Promoting and managing these uses whilst enhancing the canal environment is therefore one of the aims of the Edinburgh Canal Strategy.
Key Opportunities Projects
• Using the Canal as a means of sustainable 1. Canal user management strategy 2. Towpath capacity management transport, for both leisure and commuting users; “Safety should rely on other users adopting a responsible conduct as well, “Organise cycling/walking routes from residential areas further away from • Improving local use, access and visual connections such as having one’s dog (or sometimes one’s toddler!) under control” the canal to the canal corridor to improve sustainable transport options. with the canal corridor, the local communities Create / enable more traffic free cycle routes to town for commuters” and the wider City; • Responsible code of conduct - guidance, information or code of practice to be developed with canal community and towpath users • Creation / designation of Additional cycle routes - The Union Canal • Managing competing canal and canal uses - to help prevent conflict towpath is part of a Family Network within The Council’s Active Travel canoeists, rowers, leisure boaters, commercial Action Plan. The Family Network proposes greater use of routes such craft, walkers, cyclists and anglers; • Appropriate width - Where the towpath is too narrow consideration as the Union Canal by less experienced/leisure cyclists. For more should be given to widening to sustain multiple use experienced cyclists, a Cycle Friendly City Network is also being • Improving the sense of safety and securing the developed. future maintenance of the canal. • Signs and speed limits and traffic calming measures • Development of a commuter, community and tourism boat taxi / • Lighting strategy - consider installing unobtrusive as possible low park and ride service from edge of city to city centre. impact lighting and innovative lighting projects
• Foilage / weed control - Better and more frequent of control of foliage growth is required (see Maintenance opportunities section). 3. Towpath access improvements
“Creating more access points (especially in the section between Harrison
57 Park and the canal basin); clearer marking of canal accesses and crossing 56 Access Improvements 53 places would significantly improve matters” 53 55 Good Access 54 52 Issue Identified 51 50 Improvement Required 49 • Access points improving existing access points and consider new 47 48 accesses to make them more evenly graded for cyclists and other 46 45 users 45 43 44 406 42 44 5 41 2 404 39 34 35 38 3 40 • Disabled access for people with special needs requires more attention. 1 36 13 12 33 37 10 12 Provision should be made for disabled people at key hub points - e.g. 10 32 4029 31 407 10 14 27 11 2222 24 30 8 22 26 28 15 20 20 23 25 9 17 18 19 21 21 16 further details available in Appendix 1
16 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Waterway / Development / Environment
here is a challenge in promoting canal side developments whilst protecting the existing character of the proposed T hubs including the village of Ratho, and the historic canal structure and environment and biodiversity. It is important that the Canal Strategy promotes the proper integration • Strike a balance between the range of mooring types and between mobile and Projects between canal-side development and the canal corridor by establishing static commercial boats. appropriate design principles both for new development on the canal 1. Development of Canal Development Principles • Include designs which enhance biodiversity value e.g. green roofs, sustainable banks and on the water. Canal side and waterway developments should: urban drainage systems, vegetated areas which link to the canal. The canal corridor also provides a very important landscape feature • Respect the setting of the canal as a scheduled ancient monument both from the natural heritage and historic environment perspective. 2. Development of Canal environment Principles
The approach to development and management of the canal therefore • Accept that the canal and the towpath are an integral part of the public realm The Edinburgh Canal Strategy proposes to: has to strike a balance between the care of historic built environment of new waterside development in terms of both design and management features with living skin of wildlife habitats and species. • Support the protection, conservation and enhancement of the Union Canal and • Be orientated so that of buildings optimise views of the water, generate the character, feature and quality of its biodiversity including its waterway habitats Key Opportunities natural surveillance of water space, and encourage and improve access to, and protected species, flora and fauna. along and from the water. • Offering opportunities for large and small scale development • Consider the collection of Integrated habitat network information to inform habitat ranging from new businesses and offices and shops to small scale • Treat the canal as a leisure and commercial resource in its own right not just connectivity enhancements to contribute to the wider Central Scotland Green community housing and creating job opportunities at: a setting or backdrop for development Network
• Freeland’s Road, Ratho, • Be designed to include for water-based development, use and enhancement. • Continue British Waterways annual wildlife survey.
• Wester Hailes town centre, • Maintain or provide public access to the canal edge and towpath and • Develop volunteer involvement in habitat management • Fountainbridge enhance access for pedestrians, cyclists, canoeists, rowers and boaters. • Eradicate of invasive plant species including Japanese knotweed and Himalayan • Creating new waterspace and moorings, in order to establish a • Encourage the creation of canal side communities with a range of Balsam and management of Dutch elm diseased trees strong waterway community, complementary uses and space for activity
• Improving and developing appropriate canal-side facilities for Development Proposals Map boaters and non boaters including toilets, seating, signage, and 1 Freelands Road Site 10 lighting along the canal and in particular at: 2 Wester Hailes Canal Festival Area 9 8 3 Wester Hailes Town Centre 5 • Wester Hailes - canal festival area 4 Meggetland Watersports Centre 7 5 Harrison Park moorings & canal side improvements 6 • Meggetlands watersports centre 4 1 • Fountainbridge and Yeoman Place access 6 Yeoman Place access • Harrison Park 7 Fountainbridge bridges 8 Fountainbridge development 2 3 • Securing the future maintenance of the canal and canalside 9 Arnold Clark site environment by securing support for the canal corridor from 10 Bingo Hall canalside developments. City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 17 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Recreation /Toursim
iven the national and city wide significance and the quality of its historic, natural and recreational resources, G the Union Canal should be a key part of and contributor to the Edinburgh economy and for the city’s residents. However, despite this, the Union Canal does not have the status that it deserves.
The Canal connects Edinburgh to the rest of the central belt of Scotland and brings the Projects waterway right into the heart of the city. It is this that can be built on to provide new high- quality community and tourist destinations/facilities, raise awareness of the canal system, 1. interpretation and public art its significance, and its value to potential visitors. The canal is also an educational resource • Provide innovative means of interpreting and showcasing the in this own right, providing a source of open air activity. Canal's heritage through interpretive displays, sculptures/artwork and events. Clearly, there is a need for readily available information on the Canal Corridor. • Introduce public art along the canal corridor to create a unique Key Opportunities sense of place.
• Improving the environment by providing green space and recreational facilities within • Encourage joint working between The Council, Historic Scotland, the urban area by improving and developing appropriate canal-side facilities British Waterways Scotland and other interested parties could help to achieve better promotion of the heritage value of the canal. • Improving the relationship of surrounding communities and local use, using the canal as a catalyst to community regeneration • Install brown tourist signage, particularly at the Hubs.
• Raise awareness of the scheduled status of the canal and to promote its heritage value. 2. community facilities • Improving the appeal and visibility of the canal as a tourist attraction with accessible • Encourage small scale canal side commercial developments to information on things to do and see enhance the canal as a place to go
• Create and improve greenspace, where possible, around the defined Recreation / Community / Tourism Hubs and along the canal length. Recreation Public Space Commercial / Entertainment • Increase awareness in local schools to promote the canal as a key part of the community. 3 Visitor moorings 3 with number of available • Improve facilities for water uses along the canal, with specific focus on community facilities to engage the wider public.
5 8
18 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Infrastructure / Drainage / Climate Change
he Union Canal is not just a leisure and environmental resource but a source of renewable energy and forms part T of the land drainage system. Therefore, any new development or redevelopment of existing property on or close to the canal should consider the sustainable benefits the canal has to offer.
Key Opportunities Projects
• Exploring the canal as a water resource including improving water 1. Surface Water 2. renewable energy, Heating and Cooling quality, managing land drainage and avoiding, reducing and managing flood risk With a great demand on Scotlands sewerage system, any process that The canal is a renewable energy resource, for example, generating results in surface water being treated in a sustainable way is a real onshore hydro electric power, using canal water for heating and cooling • Considering how the canal can contribute to supporting climate advantage. The canal is well placed in Edinburgh to take surface water buildings and the use of the water way for urban cooling change, carbon reduction and Environmental Sustainability from existing and new developments. As such, the canal should be Canal water can be used for heating and cooling for both commercial considered as a cost effective solution for the receiver of all surface water • Promoting the innovative use of the canal towpath as a utility and and residential buildings. This heat exchange technology is being used generated from new developments. telecommunications route 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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 19
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft The Strategy
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 21
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
W W O 20 MIL G ES / 6½ HO H 1 URS C IT 2½ RUISIN LI N L M G IL ES / 4 H O U R S C R U ING HUBS AND WATERWAY STRATEGY IS UIS I CR N RS The Edinburgh Canal Strategy is developed The Strategy also links with Bathgate and G OU H around a series of ‘hubs’ within which canal Linlithgow and recognises their role within C ½ I T 2
moorings, canal side and canal related West Lothian and their role in facilitating use Y /
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sustainable waterway corridor, simulating the Strategy is to make the Edinburgh Canal D
waterway and waterside use. Quarter (Harrison Park to Lochrin Basin) the D
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obvious destination for waterway traffic. A The Strategy has identified five ‘hubs’ at Ratho, L M T Wester Hailes, Meggetland, Harrison Park The reason for this is to ensure that the full WES E E TE G G and Lochrin Basin. Each hub has a proposed length of the canal is animated by boat traffic, R
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function related to its current character and including Lochrin basin, ensuring a healthy T H H A
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proposed future use. canal community. L E E S S
22 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
W W O 20 MIL G ES / 6½ HO H 1 URS C IT 2½ RUISIN LI N L M G IL ES / 4 H O U R S C R U ING IS UIS I CR N RS G OU H C ½ I T 2
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City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 23 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Ratho
The Waterway Village
t is recognised that there is an opportunity at Ratho to enhance the recreational potential of the Canal, building on the Edinburgh I Canal Centre, links with the Ratho Adventure centre and its position as an overnight mooring point between Linlithgow and Edinburgh.
atho is reasonably established as an attractive R 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
24 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
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 offer 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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 25 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Wester Hailes
Service and visitor led mixed use moorings.
ester Hailes marks the entrance of the canal to the urban area of Edinburgh. It is recognised that substantial pro-active work W 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
26 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Projects
There are a number of opportunities for improving the canal at Wester Hailes including:
• Creating community uses on the canal banks,
• Creating an urban edge and improving the landscaping on the canal banks as well as the installation of benches and other street furniture.
• Promoting community pride in the canal and improving confidence in the waterway , increasing safety on and along the canal through natural surveillance and environmental improvements,
• Development of a residential marina at the shopping centre;
• The creation of a gateway to the city,
• Improving links to the town centre through the relocation of the petrol station on Murrayburn Road.
• Possible redevelopment of the site to the rear of Hailesland Park
• Improvement of Hailes Quarry Park and its link with the canal and tow path.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 27 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Meggetland
Watersports hub
eggetland is home to a number of boathouses and it is envisaged that this area could become a centre of excellence for M 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 conflict.
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 benefit the activities of all the watersport clubs.
28 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Projects
There are a number of opportunities for improving 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 reconfiguration 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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 29 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Harrison Park
The civilised waterway park
he Edinburgh Canal Quarter identifies the Edinburgh end of the Union canal and stretches from Harrison Park in the west to T 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.
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 Ritchie www.photosofedinburgh.co.uk
30 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
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
There are a number of opportunities for improving 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 cafés/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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 31 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
Lochrin Basin
The overnight mooring destination in the city
ituated within walking distance of the city centre, Lochrin Basin marks the Edinburgh end of the Union Canal. Recent developments S at Edinburgh Quay and Leamington Wharf, and the future redevelopment of the Fountain Brewery and Arnold Clark sites offer the potential for Lochrin Basin to become a popular neighbourhood and destination for residents and toursits alike.
Lochrin Basin currently offers long, short and commercial moorings, but the canal needs to generate adequate waterway traffic to animate it High quality visitor moorings should be complimented by commercial and residential moorings to create a vibrant sustainable waterway neighbourhood throughout the year.
Innovative public realm and lighting, improved signage and new interpretation facilities are also required to take advantage of the significant potential of Lochrin Basin.
Leamington Lift Bridge © Grant Ritchie www.photosofedinburgh.co.uk
32 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft
Lochrin Basin needs to generate adequate waterway traffic 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
There are a number of opportunities for improving 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 off 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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 33 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation
34 May 2011 City of Edinburgh Council City Development The Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Draft Consultation Information
CONSULTATION
Your views on the future vision for the Union Canal are very In order to consider the ‘opportunities’ and the proposed ‘hub’ strategy a period of public consultation is proposed. important. The Council and British Waterways Scotland are Consultation events will be held throughout June and July 2011. Events will be held:
particularly keen to find out: • within the five hubs (Lochrin Basin, Harrison Park, Meggetland, Wester Hailes and Ratho);
• Whether you agree/disagree with the proposed ‘Hub Strategy’. Are • with the community councils in Ratho, Wester Hailes, Longstone, Craiglockhart, Merchiston, and Tollcross; the hubs in the right place, do they have the right objectives? • at a number of Community Events including the Edinburgh Canal Festival, and the Meadows festival; and, • If you any ideas on how to improve the use of the canal as an asset • at a number of other events such as the Edinburgh Bike Breakfast and the Central Scotland Green Network forum. of the city?
• What are your views on increasing the use of the water space Responses to this document should be returned to the Council by Monday 1st August 2011. along the canal through increased moorings (of all types including If you would like to be involved in this consultation exercise the dates and locations of the consultation meetings and residential) and recreational activities? 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 • What are your thoughts on the canal side development proposals Council on: identified within the draft strategy? Kate [email protected] 0131 529 6232 • Do you think we have identified the key problem access points Craig [email protected] 0131 529 3904 along the canal? This document will be available at the Planning & Building Standards reception area at the Council’s offices at Waverley • Do you think we have missed anything? Or, as the case may be, Court, 4 East Market Street, Edinburgh. included something we shouldn’t have? 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.
City of Edinburgh Council City Development May 2011 35 The Edinburgh Canal Strategy CONSULTATION
MAY 2011
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 . ITS can also give information on community language translations. You can get more copies of this document by calling 0131 529 6232. EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Consultation Consultation Response received (key points highlighted) Council Response Question
Question 1 Cockburn Association The main opportunities appear to have been identified, but there Do you consider that we is no specific mention of opportunities for biodiversity or public INCLUDED – as part of Recreation / Tourism have identified the full art - vide Ratho Forge’s ornamental metal interpretive signage at Opportunities section range of opportunities Ratho. for the Union Canal? If not, what alternatives or Lighting the canal from Edinburgh Quay to the by-pass at Wester additions would you Hailes is required; lighting should be as unobtrusive as possible INCLUDED – as part of Access / Canal propose? such as the LED sunk lights demonstrated at Meggetland. Where Environment Opportunities section the Towpath is too narrow consideration should be given to widening.
Better control of foliage growth is required more frequently. In INCLUDED – as part of Access / Canal times of snow someone should be responsible for keeping the Environment Opportunities section traffic free artery open by clearing the towpath a.s.a.p.
Interpretation centre/café/toilet facilities in the Edinburgh Quay INCLUDED – as part of Recreation / Tourism should be considered as part of the new office developments. Opportunities section Scottish Natural Heritage We welcome the opportunities to improve access and connections with the canal and surrounding areas, and to improve recreational uses along the canal. However, the canal is a major wildlife corridor within the city, as identified on page 9 A Wildlife Habitat, and therefore it is surprising that there are no opportunities listed for the natural heritage or biodiversity. We therefore recommend the addition of an entry along the lines of: "Promoting the Union Canal as one of Edinburgh's most INCLUDED – as part of Waterway / EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
important wildlife corridors by safeguarding and/or enhancing Development / Environment Opportunities both water quality and existing canal side habitats" section
Within the Edinburgh Access Strategy, there are aims to improve access to and use of the canal. These aims have been reflected within this strategy which is to be commended. It would be useful for links to other strategies and plans, with similar aims or NOTED – Strategy makes reference to West aspirations for the canal, to be made within this document. Lothian and various planning ./ environment / transport strategies Historic Scotland We consider that there are also opportunities to use the strategy to raise awareness of the scheduled status of the canal and to INCLUDED – In History and Heritage context promote its heritage value. section and in of Waterway / Development / Environment Opportunities section
St Andrew Boat Club The stretch of the Union Canal from Harrison Park to the Craiglockhart aqueduct is heavily used by rowers and canoeists. Every year, there are problems with the amount of weed on the INCLUDED – as part of Access / Canal canal. The infrequent clearing of weed by BWB is not enough to Environment Opportunities section control the weed to a suitable level. Weed severely hampers all our activities by narrowing the canal and making it harder to navigate. The reduction in width due to weed presents a safety issue when we meet other boats. Passing other rowing boats and canoes is difficult. Passing canal barges is dangerous in a number of spots. Better maintenance of the water sports stretch INCLUDED – as part of Access / Canal of canal would improve safety and benefit the activities of all Environment Opportunities section waters ports clubs.
The high canal traffic also causes problems with pedestrians and cyclists on the tow path. We must cross the towpath to access the canal, a dangerous activity at peak times. Better EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
management of weed and grass growth, combined with clearer INCLUDED – as part of Access / Canal marking of canal accesses and crossing places would Environment Opportunities section significantly improve matters. “Traffic calming” measures such as gates or bumps (found near Harrison Park, but not on our stretch) located in trouble spots would further help the different canal users get along safely.
All clubs also suffer from inadequate facilities. Some boathouses are without running water, toilets and showers. The SABC boathouse is 25 years old and no longer sufficient for our needs.
The small changing facilities cannot support our large membership and are not suitable for juniors. We have no disabled access to our toilets, showers or changing rooms. A new boathouse that meets current statutory requirements and can support our membership is a high priority.
We support a clearer strategy for development of the canal. It has served our club well for over 150 years. Our requirements INCLUDED – Meggetland is now designated have changed in that time to meet with growing membership and as a watersports hub modern legislation. The main issues we would like to see addressed in the canal strategy are: • Designation of a water sports area • Improved maintenance of the water sports stretch to keep it fit for purpose • Better management of tow path traffic • Better rowing facilities
Chris Collins – Scottish Water A number of existing water and waste water infrastructure assets (such as sewers and various operational / maintenance items) EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
are located either under or adjacent to the canal.
As such it is essential that proposals for development consider INCLUDED – as part of Waterway / the potential impacts on such assets / infrastructure however this Development / Environment Opportunities will usually be addressed through our involvement as a statutory section and Infrastructure / Drainage / consultee to the planning application process. Climate Change section
Where a developer is in doubt, pre-application consultation and discussion at the earliest opportunity is advised in order to identify and find solutions to any potential issues. Tollcross Community Council It would be appropriate to include encouragement to organise cycling/walking routes from residential areas further away from INCLUDED – as part of access / canal the canal to the canal corridor to improve sustainable transport environment section options.
David Hunter – Local resident The Union Canal forms a valuable route for pedestrians and cyclists through west Edinburgh as well as supporting a wide range of recreational uses. There are good links between the towpath and intersecting roads along its whole route, with one exception - there is no access to the canal from the Walker INCLUDED – as part of access / canal Bridge at Polwarth. I believe that this is the only bridge in environment section and as part of Waterway Edinburgh where there is no access to the canal. This effectively / Development / Environment Opportunities disenfranchises the whole Polwarth community from use of the section canal as a local amenity. Although it is clearly not an easy site engineering-wise, I am sure that a design can be found to provide this access and there must be other potential funding partners to contribute to costs (such as Sustrans).
Mike Thomas - Resident Here are some comments on the Canal Strategy Consultation EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Document from the point of view of a disabled handcyclist who uses the canal towpath for recreational cycling.
I am paralysed from the chest down and use a recumbent tricycle for cycling and often use the towpath between Fountain Bridge and the turn off to the Water of Leith cycle path towards Balerno. Crossing the aqueduct over the water of Leith is difficult because I cannot dismount and, going west, it is impossible to check whether people are coming from the other direction until I am committed to cross. I don't believe there is much that can be done to improve this situation and crossing with care is the best option.
Unfortunately I can't use the tow path towards Ratho due to INCLUDED - as part of access / canal barriers either side of the aqueduct that crosses the A720 ring environment section road. My request is for any redevelopment to remove all of these barriers as they only serve to restrict disabled people like myself and do little to discourage any illegal motorcycle use. Several years ago I did raise these issues with British Waterways but little, if anything, appears to have been done. For the sections of the canal you are covering in this document I am only aware of these two barriers, the number rises considerably as the canal moves into West Lothian but that is an issue for British Waterways and West Lothian council.
The overall strategy looks very good; I particularly like the idea of 'hubs' to provide a focus for local communities to make the best use of this excellent amenity. Good luck with this initiative.
Brian Shearey – Local Resident The balance between preserving the "ancient monument" and upgrading the canal for present day use should be addressed. EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
For example much of the wood buffering is in a pretty bad state. INCLUDED - as part of access / canal environment section Access for people with special needs requires more attention. I'm thinking particularly of the barge trips provided by the Seagull Trust. The condition of berthing areas makes getting on and off barges trickier than it needs to be. Inconsistent heights have to be allowed for in barge design. Access for emergency service needs to be considered.
Peter Scott Planning Services The Union Canal within Edinburgh is a vital walking and cycling artery and all efforts should be made to enhance its roles in promoting active and sustainable travel along the Canal corridor and through link routes to the Canal - including links to key routes, such as the National Cycle Network routes into/through Edinburgh. Wherever possible the Canal towpath should be of an appropriate width to sustain multiple use (i.e. walking, cycling and use by wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, etc.) - i.e. a INCLUDED - as part of access / canal minimum width of 3m. Provision should be made for disabled environment section people at key hub points - e.g. disabled parking, seats and 'passing places' at short intervals.
The Union Canal in Edinburgh is an important cultural heritage resource. The Strategy should include proposals for innovative INCLUDED - as part of Community / Tourism means of interpreting and showcasing the Canal's heritage section through interpretive displays, sculptures/artwork and events.
The Strategy should include proposed arrangements for the longer term maintenance of the Canal, towpaths and associated INCLUDED - as part of access / canal features, including ranger coverage and community involvement environment section in the improvement, maintenance and environmental and visitor monitoring of the water/land corridor. EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Peng Lee Yap – Local resident I received the above document by e mail: I thought it was excellent and the proposals sound quite exciting. However, may I add one small point that has not been mentioned specifically? We walk on the Canal quite regularly to just beyond Harrison Gardens and always feel that it would be nice to have a coffee or INCLUDED - as part of Harrison Park hub some soft drink in the Harrison Gardens area
At present, there is no such provision and it would enhance that part of the Canal greatly if such a public facility was set up. There is some parallel with the Meadows - I used to be involved in the Friends of the Meadows and there were no cafe facilities on the Meadows till the Friends of the Meadows pressed the Council to lease part of the Cricket Pavilion to a local person, who now opens a cafe most days during Spring – Autumn. Could there be a similar arrangement with some property that the Council owns in the Harrison Park area?
Yann Tessier – Local Resident I belong to the regular canal path cycle commuters. I made the choice not to own a car, living in Bruntsfield and commuting to Riccarton. For me the primary value of the canal is to avoid car traffic and its risks. I believe there is also an advantage to car users having one fewer bike on the streets (including when it comes to residential parking). However this advantage can be offset in part by the issues of sharing a narrow towpath with other users having other objectives.
Using the path for commuting (approx. 600x/year), I cannot afford to be virtually stopped each time I come across a pedestrian. Safety has been 100% ensured in my 3-year EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
experience through me taking the appropriate behaviour (anticipation, gentle bell warning, proper safety equipment). Safety should rely on other users adopting a responsible conduct INCLUDED - as part of access / canal as well, such as having one's dog (or sometimes one's toddler!) environment section under control, walking in line where width barely allows 2 lanes, etc. Ideally clear rules should be set as to which lane should be used by pedestrians by default, and cyclists respectively. In an even better world, there would be a towpath for cyclists (e.g. a second one would be created on the other side of the canal).
To minimise encounters and the associated risks, I impose on myself to wake up early and get to work around 0630 am. I must say this is a constraint, and would dream of a city wherein I could commute 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) help the category of users I represent (and likely other users, through the peace brought by clear rules).
Ursula Adams (member of Craiglockhart Community Council) While the urban path going into the Edinburgh Centre is pleasant for both cyclists and walkers, the two groups mixing on the same path is not an ideal situation, many walkers avoiding the canal path altogether, particularly if they have dogs, because the peace is spoiled by constant cyclists, whether or not they use their bells. Would it be possible to perhaps have a simple, INCLUDED - as part of access / canal spaced out, wooden "separation" which would separate the two environment section groups?
Spokes EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
SPOKES welcomes the opportunity to comment on this consultation document.
The canal towpath is extensively used by cyclists for both recreational and other journeys. Taken with the Colinton/Balerno cycle path, which it links into, it provides opportunities for cycling in an attractive and motor traffic free environment for long distances from the centre of Edinburgh to the south western edge. It is a considerable asset for both cyclists and the community as a whole.
SPOKES has encouraged the BWB and Edinburgh Council to positively manage and develop the towpath for safe cycling for families and others for over 30 years, well before it became more widely 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 be considered where possible, including: 1. creating more access points (especially in the section INCLUDED - as part of access / canal between Harrison Park and the canal basin); environment section 2. improving existing access points to make them more evenly graded for cyclists and other users; 3. installing low impact lighting as the towpath is extensively used 4. in the early evenings in winter and there is a particular danger of collisions; 5. improving any remaining stretches without a satisfactory hard surface; 6. exploring the options for widening the towpath, for example, between Ashley Terrace and the access point EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
to the Colinton cycle path, by cutting back on the surrounding vegetation.
SPOKES was pleased to learn that CEC has already commissioned a study to identify options for improvements along the canal towpath including low impact lighting. We consider that the strategy should include a commitment to active consideration and implementation of a programme of improvements of the sort mentioned above.
SPOKES recognises that increasing use of the towpath by a wide range of users has brought its own problems although the extent of these can easily be exaggerated. SPOKES supports the principle of courteous behaviour by all users including, but not limited to, cyclists. Although SPOKES would be strongly opposed to any attempts to single out cyclists for criticism, we would be happy to contribute constructively to any guidance, information or code of practice that might be developed to help prevent conflicts between users. We would also be happy to consider disseminating any such advisory material to our members in due course.
David J. Hood No; and indeed the opportunities don’t actually include the NOTED boating community, business or take cognisance of the actual canal and boats as the central feature, strangely!
Question 2 Cockburn Association In general, opportunities to enhance landscape, biodiversity and Can you identify where recreation should be sought along all sections of the canal. EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
the opportunities can best INCLUDED - as part of waterway / be realised or achieved? Development should be contained within existing settlements development / environment section and should be subservient to the general environmental and recreation requirements. Where new developments are permitted they should be facing the canal, no new developments should have their back to the canal and more prominence should be given to low-rise developments.
Improved and more access points especially at existing bridges INCLUDED – as part of recreation / tourism is required to really open the canal up to as many people as section possible.
Opportunities for Brown tourist signage particularly at Edinburgh Quay and Harrison Park should be explored. Scottish Natural Heritage Securing existing canal side habitat is likely to be most INCLUDED - as part of waterway / important in the urban areas and this can be addressed through development / environment section the planning system. Historic Scotland Joint working between Historic Scotland, British Waterways NOTED Scotland and other interested parties could help to achieve better promotion of the heritage value of the canal. David J. Hood Greater encouragement, nurturing and perhaps funding / in-kind NOTED support to cooperatives and 'user Joint Ventures’
Question 3 Cockburn Association Priority should be given to the landscape, biodiversity and Can you identify any recreational opportunities of the canal strategy. Decision making issues in achieving these for development should give greater weight to these priorities, NOTED opportunities, for example including the protection of the Green Belt through which much of EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
where they may be the canal passes. The 2nd and 3rd bullets dealing with the conflicts? visual connections of the canal and its appeal for tourism are NOTED very important. These should not be compromised by over development of the canal side or visual clutter. All development should be of a high visual standard. INCLUDED - as part of waterway / development / environment section There will be conflicts with Developers in stipulating the aspect and height of properties. Developers should contribute to the canal and towpath’s ongoing upgrade and maintenance and must be constrained in the type of buildings they are allowed. Scottish Natural Heritage There can be conflicts where adjacent householders purchase small pockets of land at the canal side and canal habitat is lost INCLUDED - as part of waterway / to gardens. Again this is predominantly in urban areas. development / environment section Historic Scotland Increased 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 historic INCLUDED - as part of waterway / value and early consultation with Historic Scotland would be development / environment section advantageous for new proposals which may have a physical impact on the monument or which may impact upon its setting. Lynn Grattage The more you have different users, the more conflict with walkers, cyclists, etc. But this can be minimised by careful landscaping, and having marked cycle lanes around areas which 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 tow path for cycling, walking, walking with dogs, and lately skiing! INCLUDED - as part of access / canal One thing which is really annoying (particularly as a cyclist environment section EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
myself), is the irresponsible behaviour of some cyclists, principally cycling past other users too fast. I hear stories of cyclists being pushed into the canal which could be due to annoyance at cyclists’ behaviour. Some cyclists are not aware they need to warn dogs as well as humans of their presence. INCLUDED - as part of access / canal There are speed limit signs on the side of the canal nearer the environment section town centre, but I don’t know if these are for cyclists or boats (boats I think). Perhaps signs / speed limits for cyclists would be good.
One important area to mention is the Aqueduct over the water of Leith. There is a sign telling cyclists to dismount. Most (including myself), do not dismount as this makes it even more difficult to pass another user due to the narrow space. Actually, people are always really considerate in my experience in this area, despite it being very busy. INCLUDED - as part of access / canal The tow path has become very busy with cyclists, particularly environment section during rush hour times, as it is such a fantastic traffic free corridor, and I have to say, it is one of the highlights for me of going to work as it is beautiful cycling along the canal, whatever the weather. A major way for the council to relieve the pressure this causes on the tow path is to create / enable more traffic free cycle routes to town for commuters, as it shows how many people would commute by bike if they thought it was safe.
David J. Hood NOTED - 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 / EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
overlap (e.g. same day, different use on the day etc)
Question 4 Cockburn Association The guiding principles for canal waterway sustainability should How can we achieve a be derived from the Brundlandt definition of sustainable sustainable canal development (Our Common Future, 1983) waterway? ‘development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ ‘at a minimum, sustainable development must not endanger the natural systems that support life on earth: the atmosphere, the waters, the soils and the living beings’
Developers and property owners as well as users of the canal in NOTED terms 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 be developing the route.
Tollcross Community Council We feel that more weight should be given to the suggestion that a balance between mobile and static commercial boats should INCLUDED - as part of waterway / be in favour of mobile boats. There is an aspiration to keep the development / environment section waterway as a vibrant, used facility and as there is a shortage of moorings for boaters who wish to visit, then we feel that space at the end of the canal should not be limited by more than a few permanently moored boats. This may well be against the interests of British Waterways but in the interests of canal users. David J. Hood NOTED Ensure that everyone involved is working in concert; this is not the case currently. Success to date has relied upon individual EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
actions and in spite of, not due to, inertia and bureaucracy; Q4 is too difficult to fully do justice with an answer: there are fundamental problems with non-inclusion, fiefdoms, 'stalling' and uncertainty to overcome first.
Question 5 Cockburn Association The canal strategy should seek to implement the Brundlandt What role should a canal definition of sustainability. A particular concern for future strategy have in helping generations will be how to deal with climate change issues and to achieve this? this should form part of the strategy e.g. • seek zero CO2 emissions from powered boats on the canal. NOTED • promote tree and shrub planting to sequester carbon. • protect high quality soils from development, which will be needed for food production by future generations.
The Canal strategy should bring together stakeholders as the way forward. All those that have an interest must be represented as they ultimately will be required to make the strategy sustainable.
David J. Hood Should alleviate the above and lead to ensuring a common and NOTED inclusive approach; vision needs to be matched by willingness, real intent and funding!
Question 6 Cockburn Association Better awareness on the existence of the canal is required INCLUDED - as part of access / canal EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
How can we improve the through better tourist type signage, more and better access, environment section role of the Union Canal more interpretation and explanation points explaining how the and Edinburgh within the canal fits in with other Scottish Waterway and other initiatives wider Scottish Waterway such as Sustrans, Garden City and planning along the canal Initiatives? side in general. David J. Hood Make Edinburgh Quay and the other stop-off points true NOTED – INLCUDED as part of hub strategy destinations as opposed to just temporary 'drop off points' or a terminus.
Question 7 Cockburn Association Design should follow what is considered best practice from INCLUDED - as part of access / canal What design guidelines elsewhere, appropriate signage and lighting is essential, further environment section should the strategy and better biodiversity issues require to be addressed i.e. more propose to ensure canal planting of trees, bushes etc. Building proposed must fit in with INCLUDED - as part of waterway / side developments relate what is already there and not detract from the canal. Those development / environment section to and enhance the local living by the canal must be part of the canal and not shut off by identity of the waterway in high fences or hedges. More hard and soft landscaping is the City? required particularly in the Wester Hailes area. Safety must be a key feature in any design guidelines for all users of the canal. Scottish Natural Heritage The principles listed are all important in maintaining the setting of the canal side and connectivity with the canal side. These in turn will maintain and offer opportunities to enhance access to, amenity of and recreational use of the canal side. The Strategy INCLUDED - as part of waterway / should also propose the creation of new greenspaces within development / environment section canal side developments.
These should be designed for people and nature and where INCLUDED - as part of waterway / possible should enhance and/or form links with existing canal development / environment section side habitats. The potential for new greenspaces should be added to the lists of opportunities within the various Hubs. EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Historic Scotland It will be important that any new canal side developments INCLUDED - as part of waterway / respect the setting of the canal as a scheduled monument. To development / environment section achieve this new design should respect present land uses and seek not to introduce new elements e.g. increased height/ massing. Tollcross Community Council
We think that more specific encouragements could be used; e.g. INCLUDED - as part of waterway / a) Have a greater proportion of residential than development / environment section commercial developments adjacent to the canal. b) Not have the backs of buildings closely adjacent to the canal. c) Specify advantageous routes that improve permeability – such as at Yeaman Place, Gibson Terrace, the east end of Harrison Park East by the old bowling green and of course the brewery developments and improve signage to the canal – such as from Tollcross. The canal strategy does not need to take a narrow view, just dealing with the narrow corridor itself. It can emphasise its importance for leisure and travel for the wider Edinburgh public. d) Specify a stepping down of buildings to the edge of the canal to three storeys. e) Specific encouragement for more activities, stalls, food outlets, retail etc. f) Specify that, whilst dredging is important, perhaps there are wider sections for reeds for the nesting birds which are an attractive feature.
EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Whilst we accept that it is not the role of a strategy to be highly specific or prescriptive, we believe that statements (p 11) like ‘Improving the balance of uses on and of water, to increase and sustain appropriate activity’ are so woolly as to be meaningless. David J. Hood NOTED They reflect both environmental / aesthetic considerations AND the user communities; the Council and BWS both have strong planning and control powers to utilise, they should adopt a more aspirational and elegant approach and attitude to design rather than 'planning cant-do'; develop a new specific 'canal side policy' for design and economic principles that would allow INCLUDED - as part of waterway / change to be effectively managed, that takes the best of well development / environment section understood planning and design principles but leaves out the rather outdated and irrelevant issues that bedevil traditional design.
Question 8 Cockburn Association Canal hubs should be integral to the development of the canal Do you agree with the but they must have a clear purpose, be properly funded and INCLUDED - as part of Hub Strategy proposal to create canal maintained to encourage boat users in particular in coming to hubs? If no, what should Edinburgh and not simply mooring up at Ratho as they do not the strategy be? feel secure enough to moor nearer the city. Facilities at canal hubs are essential particularly at Edinburgh Quay and Ratho in terms of access, public transport and public facilities such as café, picnic and toilet facilities and of course rubbish bins. Responsibility for maintaining, sustaining and policing these hubs needs to be established and put in place. Scottish Natural Heritage Yes, these sites are already identified as key development areas and therefore the opportunity exists to promote the canal EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
as integral to these areas. Tollcross Community Council
We accept that the idea of canal hubs has merit as there are different requirements for a strategy in the different places. INCLUDED - as part of access section – Perhaps a section could be devoted to the non-hub sections pinch point strategy being developed that are often quieter and could provide park-like characters. East and west of the Slateford aqueduct are examples where it would be good to suggest better public realm such as benches and more signposts. Also, more rural sections East of Ratho are well worth mentioning in terms of conservation. David J. Hood NOTED Yes, if inclusive rather than prescriptive.
Lynn Grattage Canal Hubs may be a good idea, though as long as it was not to NOTED – opportunities section looks at whole the exclusion of improving things in other stretches of the canal. canal
Question 9 Cockburn Association The proposed canal hubs appear to be located in the obvious Are these canal hubs in places. the correct place? If no, Scottish Natural Heritage where should they be? Although not hubs, there remains opportunities for improved NOTED – Access point strategy being access to the canal at certain points along the canal. Eg. developed Polwarth, Calderpark and Harrison Gardens. This has been raised through the Access Strategy and Core Path Plan and opportunities for continuing improvements in these areas should be considered alongside such opportunities within Hub areas. Lynn Grattage I agree with the Hub sites, mainly Wester Hailes, but this should NOTED – Now included as part of Wester EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
include the areas of south Sighthill, Hailesland and Hailes park, Hailes. which it seems to me have had less regeneration money than other parts of Wester Hailes.
The centre could do with a bit more, not so sure about Ratho – do many people go here?
Question 10 Cockburn Association Not at present. Review the issue when existing hubs have been Do you think we should developed and in operation. The canal strategy must be seen NOTED add further hubs and as ‘work in progress’ for many years to come given the level of where should these be? development opportunity that will be realised in the future. A INCLUDED – Watersports Hub now included possibility of a mini-hub for Craiglockhart should be explored to at Meggetland take in the many boating/canoeing interests. Jonathan Riddell, Forth Canoe Club The canal strategy should strongly emphasise the ability for the INCLUDED – Watersports Hub now included canal to promote water sports and export top quality athletes. It at Meggetland should be an aim of the strategy to encourage and enhance the facilities available in these areas. A sports hub at Meggetland is one way the city could achieve this.
Question 11 Cockburn Association Yes. But see responses to Q 2, 3, 4 – development should not Do you consider that be allowed to diminish or destroy these issues. building upon Ratho’s However Ratho is in danger of becoming the boat/canoe owners potential as a canal destination and or base which may have an undesirable effect NOTED – This is part of the overall Hub village is the correct of not encouraging these users nearer Edinburgh Quay/Harrison Strategy approach? If not, what Park areas. should the approach be? Lynn Grattage I would focus more on Wester Hailes and the centre as NOTED proportionally more people would benefit, and Ratho is nice EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
anyway as it is. Ursula Adams (member of Craiglockhart Community Council). I would hope that in "developing" the various "hubs", Ratho NOTED would not be over-developed ,as part of its charm is its old world country atmosphere and its peace, which is particularly appreciated by the many people who benefit from the Seagull Trust cruises
David J. Hood It is difficult to answer this Q as there is no definition of what a NOTED 'canal village' constitutes (and presumably this doesn’t mean what a commercial developer would define, a la Ratho's new estate!), other than a canal running through a village! There is a danger of exclusivity (as in Ratho's Cala Development) making it a rich-only zone and pursuit
Question 12 Cockburn Association Ratho could easily become the boaters’ capital in Scotland and NOTED Do you consider that we if that is what is wanted then other opportunities will have identified the full undoubtedly follow. range of opportunities for David J. Hood the Ratho hub? If not, A boat park and ride? Encourage cycling from Edinburgh to INCLUDED in Strategy what alternatives or Ratho. Riverbuses, run by ReUnion? Moorings at Ratho addition would you Outdoor Climbing Arena and further moorings. propose?
Question 13 Cockburn Association Ratho has facilities already but given the opportunities that the Within Ratho can you canal could bring, Ratho could do with some ‘safer’ cycling identify where the routes to and from the canal especially towards Newbridge. NOTED – Included in Strategy opportunities can best be Safe and secure cycle storage is also required particularly at the EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
realised or achieved? Bridge Inn area.
Question 14 Cockburn Association An aspiration for a community canal through Wester Hailes is an Do you consider that obvious starting point. building upon Wester Hailes’s potential for However, Wester Hailes is an intimidating area to go through developing a community especially in the evening, the issue of safety and security must NOTED canal is the correct be addressed with good quality lighting, signage and policing. approach? If not what Scottish Natural Heritage should the approach be? SNH has grant aided projects in Calderpark to encourage residents to enjoy the outdoors and has worked with British Waterways to increase use of the canal. There are good NOTED opportunities to build on this by including Calderpark within the listed opportunities for the Wester Hailes Hub, particularly for improving access to the canal. Lynn Grattage Yes definitely Wester Hailes should be a hub. It would be great to have residents of Wester Hailes enjoying the canal more and being involved in any outdoor pursuits more (not just water ones). (But as mentioned above, including all the area as far as INCLUDED – In Strategy Hailes park to the east of Wester Hailes, this is not marked on your map at present).
Question 15 Cockburn Association Most opportunities have been dealt with. Do you consider that we Lynn Grattage have identified the full My ideas (as a resident of Longstone, living near the canal at range of opportunities for Hailes Park), are: the Wester Hailes hub? If not, what alternatives or Encouraging Wester Hailes residents to use the canal e.g. by INCLUDED – In Strategy EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
addition would you learning to kayak, canoe, or row. This would be facilitated by propose? creating an area where boats could be launched and stored (by Hailes Park for example?).
Improving the connection between Hailes Park and the canal, NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy e.g. by opening up some of the hedge areas between and putting benches there. Having a board beside the canal which is visible which displays what is on offer in Hailes Park e.g. the climbing wall, children’s area, cycling track and playing fields which you wouldn’t know were there otherwise. NOTED
Suggesting to the Allotments strategy people that any allotments put in Hailes park should be put at the north of the park, not at the south as is presently proposed which would be right next to the canal (and remove valuable playing field area). INCLUDED – In Strategy
Having a café by the canal somewhere suitable, particularly if close to Wester Hailes centre? Cafes are always brilliant magnets. NOTED The skateboard park at Saughton park has been hugely successful; could this be repeated near the canal somewhere?
There is a disused building between the canal and railway at the end of Drumbryden road. Could this area be used for something? NOTED – Will develop as part of forthcoming consultation I think it is really important to enable the community in Wester Hailes to contribute to development of the stretch of canal in this area. A community consultation in the area has to be proactive though – just expecting people to reply to this document, or go to the community consultation meeting is naive – you will only EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
get the kind of people who go to community council meetings (generally over age 60), who will complain about graffiti and will have a fear of encouraging anti social behaviour. It is really important to give residents an opportunity to have things to do which will also enable people to have healthy outdoor things to do. I don’t think they necessarily need to be water sports to have the effect of more integration of the canal with the surrounding community.
I suggest visiting schools, youth clubs, community centres, or even talking to young people loitering around the canal to find out what is wanted.
Question 16 Cockburn Association The whole of the route through Wester Hailes needs to become Within Wester Hailes can more accessible and with excellent lighting and security NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy you identify where the systems to and from the canal as well as the towpath. opportunities can best be Lynn Grattage realised or achieved? Murrayburn – around Murrayburn Drive, site at end of Drumbryden road, Hailes Park. INCLUDED – In Strategy
Question 17 Cockburn Association Canal Quarter is a good approach but at this point in time there NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy Do you consider that may be scope for increasing the size of the existing basin or building upon the city creating another basin on other sites between Edinburgh Quay centre’s potential for and Fountainbridge. Canal Quarter in Edinburgh should be as developing a Canal much of a tourist draw as the city centre and would potentially Quarter is the correct relieve some of the pressures on city centre sites. approach? If not what Scottish Natural Heritage should the approach be? Opportunities exist for the creation and linking of greenspace NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy within the Canal Quarter. Within some of the masterplans which EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
are being drawn up for new development in this area, a landscape framework connecting the canal with new areas of greenspace or open space are very much integral to the plans.
Kay Smith, Resident I am concerned about any developments that put more stress on Harrison Park and the canal path that run along the south end. The path has already become congested with cyclists since its resurfacing. West Harrison Park is already a very busy park especially in good weather. It is surrounded by tenements NOTED and discussed In Strategy and terraced villas. I would be opposed to any residential boats with permanent or semi permanent docking facilities. Or the development of a "Hub" that attracted commercial activities.
Tollcross Community Council It would be appropriate to mention the importance of the extra NOTED water space on the Arnold Clark development. In other words, reinforce the current approved planning permission as it may well be that another developer will come in there and drop that idea. Furthermore, it would be worth encouragement of the NOTED water space approved in the PPP for the brewery site as its piecemeal development could see it also dropped.
Question 18 Cockburn Association In addition to what is proposed an interpretation Do you consider that we centre/café/toilets/picnic facilities together with more hard and NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy have identified the full soft landscaping would be desirable and these being provided in range of opportunities for the most part by Developers as part of the planning gain the Canal Quarter? If not, Lynn Grattage what alternatives or Add cafes and snack bars. Would be nice for after you have NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy addition would you had your row in a boat along the canal (or walk or cycle). This EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
propose? also applies to all along the canal. As mentioned above, cafes Question 19 are always popular.
Within the Canal Quarter Local Resident can you identify where the I would like to add my personal comment that the Lochrin basin NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy opportunities can best be / Edinburgh Quay needs much better signage. There is one realised or achieved? tasteful sign at the entrance from Fountainbridge. Probably could be seen by a pedestrian but not visible from a car, bus or bike. So no good to passing traffic. I can't understand why CEC does not sign the CANAL at this point to remind passing traffic that this is where the Canal starts. It would bring in more trade for the cafe/ restaurants etc helping to make the whole development more viable.
Craiglockhart Community Council One issue which has cropped up around the canal in our area is NOTED that of Graffiti, particularly on the bridge at Allan Park. Is there a way we could articulate our concerns on this matter, particularly about preventative measures, through your forum? Cockburn Association The existing ‘newish’ developments have a great deal of empty space which could already be used for an interpretation centre NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy with facilities. The Fountainbridge site must be used as leverage for the Canal Quarter if possible with parts of the development being specifically for the development of the canal and its environs.
Other comments Angela Hull – local resident I find the ‘strategy’ difficult to comment on since it’s not really a strategy for action, with proposals etc. It’s rather a document that acknowledges the diversity of uses along and adjoining the canal and starts to identify opportunities. Having said this, the EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
one strategic element is the proposal to concentrate attention, and resources, at the 3 key canal hubs. I support this idea and understand that it focuses on different communities of interest and hence provides space along the canal for these. To some extent this separates some of the conflicts of interest; boaters at Ratho, community regeneration at Wester Hailes, and the openly commercial/ tourist events at the eastern end. NOTED and INCLUDED – In Strategy in waterway / development / environment I would have liked to have seen a strategy with some key section principles to shape the development and future use of the canal. These are missing from the document, though a section does ask for views on the design principles. The focus on opportunities for the canal hypes up a growth in usage and to NOTED prepare for this growth, the design principles need to find more space adjoining the canal path to cater for increased numbers. A design statement needs therefore to be produced to inform developers of land adjoining the canal of the way-leaves required to provide more public space for circulation and of the need to provide more interaction space along the canal for encounters (encounter space). This is quite urgent since detailed designs and masterplans are already being produced for different sites so that without an overarching design framework provided by the Council/ British Waterways the opportunities mentioned in the consultation document will not be maximised, and conflicts between uses will more likely happen.
The National Trust for Scotland The Trust welcomes the consultation on the above strategy and the recognition it gives to such an important corridor for access, recreation, cultural and natural heritage from city centre to periphery and beyond.
EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
You may be aware that the Trust headquarters office has been relocated to the west side of Edinburgh just off Cultins Road and immediately adjacent to the canal. Many of our staff now use the walk and cycle ways along its length and they may make individual comments. At this stage the Trust is developing ideas for liaising with the surrounding community and, whilst not NOTED responding in detail to the consultation, requests that it be kept informed of steps to implement the strategy, in particular should proposals be brought forward for the Wester Hailes hub shown as stretching to the east of our new location. Should further promotional material for the canal be considered we would be happy to display this in our reception. Neil Macfarlane I would suggest that as well as the hubs applications for remote NOTED and considered in Strategy residential moorings should also be considered.
There are a number of locations between Wester Hailes and Ratho where the canal is wide enough to berth a few boats without affecting navigability.
David J. Hood What about creating 'Centres of Excellence' along the canal at different locations? e.g. for: a) Canoeing b) Boat Studies NOTED c) Art/Creative Courses / Galleries d) Tourism Studies e) Community Projects (similar to WH) f) Cooperative Ventures g) Canal Public Transport System h) Renewable Energy (kitting out boats and using a boat to run fully on renewables and show off some latest tech; DH has EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
some ideas on this already)
Other consultation responses follow
EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Murray Estates
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy – Response by Murray Estates
I write on behalf of Murray Estates who have significant landholdings on either side of the Union Canal to the west of Edinburgh.
As you are aware, Murray Estates are promoting a major development opportunity known as the Edinburgh’s Garden District. This is by way of the SESplan process, and we appreciate that it is not within the remit of the Edinburgh Canal Strategy to consider canal related development beyond the context set by the current development plan.
We are writing to express our general support for the establishment of a coherent strategy for the future of the Union Canal. In that respect we support the opportunities identified in the document, and the development of canal hubs at Ratho, Wester Hailes and the Canal Quarter.
You might be interested to know that during the recent Edinburgh Garden District Charrette, there was considerable interest and debate on the future of the Canal. There was discussion about enhancing the Canal’s role as a focus for walking, cycling, rowing and kayaking, and the important role it could play as a complementary visitor attraction to the Calyx. British Waterways took the time to attend and contribute and you may care to discuss with them their perceptions of the event.
The detailed report on the charrette outcomes is in preparation and I will provide you with a copy when available early in the New Year. If Edinburgh’s Garden District does proceed, we believe there can be substantial benefits for the Canal and its users. We understand, however, that this will be for a future canal strategy to consider.
Sustrans
The Edinburgh Canal Strategy – Consultation Response
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the draft Edinburgh Canal Strategy document. As you know, Sustrans is a key partner of British Waterways and as the Union Canal forms National Cycle Network route 75 and 754, we are pleased to contribute to the strategic development of the canal network. The draft consultation document is very comprehensive and covers all the key issues relating to the canal development so this response will expand on a number of key issues most pertinent to Sustrans.
Over recent years there has been a huge increase in walking and cycling levels along the canal towpath and so inevitably, this has led to conflicts between users, particularly at peak times and so any future development of the canal and increase in usage needs to be carefully managed.
Anecdotal evidence would suggest that the peak times for cycle usage is around the key commuting times of 7 - 9.30am and then from 16.00 – 18.00. The towpath is heavily used by commuting cyclists around these times and also by parents and school children, both walking and cycling. During these times, the towpath would appear to be at or almost at capacity. Therefore, a major question that the strategy will need to consider is: is promotion and increased usage of the towpath is possible EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments and indeed desirable or should the strategy be aimed at controlling or even reducing user levels. Perhaps the strategy should look at ‘positive discrimination’ to alleviate demand during peak times, whilst actively looking to increase users during the non peak times. Measures could be out in place to encourage commuting cyclists (usually confident and faster cyclists) to use the road or other parallel routes, thereby reducing conflicts with other users.
The strategy should highlight the importance of continuing with soft measures campaigns to effect behaviour change. Spokes ‘Polite Cycling’ campaigns and others trialled by British Waterways Scotland and Sustrans should continue and be focused towards all canal users, particularly those at peak times. The theme of ‘Responsible Use’ should be promoted to all users as conflicts between walkers, cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, rowers and canoeists are common and should be tackled before increased usage is sought. The nature and details of any campaign are open to debate, suffice to say Sustrans are very keen to be involved in any future behaviour change campaigns and offer our full support to this.
Permeability of the canal corridor is another key issue that should be examined within the strategy. Whilst there are a number of access points along the canal corridor, in certain areas there are a lack of suitable access, thereby making it inaccessible to a number of local communities and services. This is particularly the case in the Canal Quarter and Wester Hailes hubs where the larger centres of populations are and also the key destinations for commuting. New access points will not only allow greater access on to the canal corridor but will also allow users to exit at the correct destinations rather than having to travel some distances to the nearest access point. There have been a number of informal accesses created through use along the length of the corridor indicating that new and improved access points are required. A feasibility and design study looking at all access points and proposed accesses has been carried out on behalf of British Waterways Scotland. The strategy should seek to provide a framework for delivering the outcomes raised in this report, either as individual projects or through developers as part of future canal side development. The issue of parallel routes dovetails well with the issue of permeability. Although physically separate from the canal corridor, the strategy should seek to support a network of parallel traffic free of quiet road cycle routes, perhaps as part of the CEC active travel action plan. The provision and promotion of a network of alternative routes, particularly for the faster and more confident commuter cyclist, would help to alleviate pressure on the towpath and reduce user conflicts at peak times. Local groups such as SPOKES and CTC have suggested that a number of possible routes do exist and these could be investigated as part of any future canal development.
The physical condition of the canal and towpath, currently and the desired condition in the future must be considered as part of the strategy. As well as the future upgrade of the physical infrastructure, the strategy should also seek to trial a series of infrastructure solutions, such as surfacing choice, new lighting, signage and such like which would look to make the canal visitors experience easier and more enjoyable. Correct infrastructure choices, such surfacing choices or installation of speed humps, can also assist in reducing conflicts between users. Sustrans and British Waterways Scotland amongst others have significant expertise in these areas. Trials of new products such as solar marking lighting have recently been undertaken by BWS and so the strategy should seek to support and underpin such trials. This would need to be balanced against the protected heritage status of the canal but improved effective infrastructure must be a key aim.
To encourage usage of the towpath by walkers and cyclists, the surfacing of the route, particularly around the Wester Hailes node and West to Ratho require to be EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments addressed. The upgrades to a bound surface around the canal quarter have been highly successful and the strategy should look to provide a framework to extend this westwards. A number of areas have been highlighted where the towpath could be widened to allow higher usage levels and reduce conflict between users. Widening would only be achievable in certain areas and there would still be a number of ‘pinch points’, such as bridge crossings and adjacent to buildings, where this would not be possible. It should also be noted that it would be physically impossible to widen the towpath sufficiently to allow for a segregated route. As discussed, I will provide CEC with annotated maps showing the ‘pinch points’, potential areas for widening of the towpath and other relevant information. I will aim to provide this by the 14th January.
A definitive signage and promotion framework should be a key outcome from the strategy document. Currently signing to and from the canal is limited to National Cycle Network signage and this is the bare minimum. Sustrans and BWS have been in discussions to agree to signage guidelines to ensure continuity of signage. The canal strategy could perhaps consider and agree a uniform style for all canal signage and this could be translated to all partners. Interpretation, if thought necessary, could also be considered as part of the signage strategy and implemented in future developments. Comments from local residents and tourists indicate that many are unaware of the existence of the canal, mainly due to lack of signage and promotion, but would be likely to use the canal now that they are aware of the existence and location of it. This would suggest that a programme of signage and promotion would positively impact upon canal user levels.
At present only the most heavily used sections of the canal, mainly in the canal quarter, have the provision of street lighting or benefit from lighting in adjacent areas. The lack of lighting can create the impression of the canal corridor being unsafe and this consequently impacts on usage. Whilst lighting may not be beneficial or desirable in all areas and financial and wildlife impacts must be considered, a coherent plan for lighting should be formed and a framework for rolling this out needs to be considered as part of the strategy. Again, this would also positively impact on usage levels, particularly throughout the winter period. There are a number of styles and types of lighting that could be suitable for the canal corridor which could be considered and agreed on as well as the extents of lighting.
Finally, longer term maintenance of the route is also a key issue for increasing usage or maintaining existing levels of usage. The towpath has over the past number of years undergone progressive upgrading. Whilst this is excellent and has increased levels of use dramatically, longer term regular maintenance to ensure the route remains at a consistently high standard. Concerns have been raised by a range of users about ongoing maintenance, particularly with regard to vegetation management, litter clearance and vandalism damage. The strategy should seek to ensure that a rigorous maintenance plan is formed and adhered to, thus ensuring a high quality, safe and enjoyable environment is available to all users.
I hope that these comments are useful and have sufficiently expanded on what Sustrans feel are key areas that the strategy should examine and take forward. I would be happy to discuss any of this with you should you require any clarification on any points raised within this response. Please do not hesitate to contact if you would like to discuss this further.
Art in Architecture
Please find a submission to the current consultation on the Union Canal. EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
The attached image shows a sketch proposals that tries to identify potential future links from the Union Canal out to the Firth of Forth / Edinburgh waterfront. We would like to suggest the development of the concept to a more considered study and feel it could be hugely beneficial, even if merely remaining a desktop study. There are 9 potential routes shown on this initial sketch obviously there are other possibilities, which a further study could identify and analyse.
This initial idea was to try where possible to utilise old railway routes and elevated structures.
We have started to make contacts with educational institutions to investigate this idea as a student project and combine this as a professional research study and may even potentially become considered as relevant to the new waterfront Area Development Frameworks.
This will hopefully take place with the involvement of British Waterways whom I have been in contact with in relation to this and hope to meet for a more in depth discussion around this proposal soon.
Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
Edinburgh Canal Strategy Consultation Workshops - note of meetings
Ratho – 3 November 2010
Opportunity:
• Improving physical and visual connections • Improving local use and access to the canal
Comments:
• Canal is a barrier to Ratho, prevents circulation • Not enough access points, bridges • Bridge could link to the Bus terminus, will help protect bus service and connect to EICA • Bridge example - Almondvale country park
Opportunity:
• Improving the appeal of the canal as a tourist attraction • Improving the relationship of surrounding communities
Comments
• The ‘Hubs’ are destinations and should be promoted as such – look at BWS management plan and SW NP sections and how they are managed. • Ratho canal festival • Encouraging community involvement, voluntary work with the Seagull Trust • Development of a social strategy for involvement and developing the canal festival • Canoe trail
Opportunity:
• Offering opportunities for development • Creating new waterspace and moorings
Comments
• Freelands Road development and the new marina is key to future of Ratho as a canal destination • The type/mix of moorings to be provided should be considered in detail • Timing for development? How long before the marina is in place. Developer will put marina in last.
Opportunity:
Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
• Improving and developing appropriate canal-side facilities • Improving the environment by providing green space and recreational facilities
Comments
• Proposed service block at Ratho as part of new marina. • Could a Ratho canoe club use the BWS toilet block? • Where could canoes be stored? For example EICA stores canoes for a group, although they do not canoe on the canal! • Contact with 8 Bridges canoe club • Proposed canoe trail?
Opportunity:
• Using the Canal as a form of Sustainable Transport • Securing the future maintenance of the canal • Improving the sense of safety
Comments
• Towpath very narrow • Vegetation on banks needs cutting back • Ratho to identify key areas • BWS has towpath standards - standards to change for Ratho as it develops? • BWS maintenance plan / tree plan • Extended towpath on piers / pontoons
• Safety issues • Hedge trimming – punctures – policy? • Canal frozen – school children education • Cyclist code of conduct
• Improving other roads in area • ‘Quiet lanes’ proposal – more information – CPRE guide http://www.cpre.org.uk/library/1888
Opportunity:
• Exploring the canal as part of land drainage and water supply systems
Comments
• Using the canal as a sustainable urban drainage solution?
Opportunity
• Considering how the canal can contribute to supporting climate change, carbon reduction and environmental sustainability
Comments Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
• Use of the canal as a heat pump • Service blocks can use heat pumps for power. Freelands Road site?
Wester Hailes -17 November
• Improve access to canal o New parking points, but main access should be for other forms o Access must be properly done o Tie in cycle routes
• Could be used for commercial transport
• Lighting – whole towpath
• Resolve conflicts between users
• Make it a safer place
• Must be compulsory for cyclist to have a bell
• Ecological focus
• School should use renewable energy from the canal
• Gateway sculpture
• Local boat days, canoe day
• Increase community / boat activity
• Potential for Garden District ?
• Any development must benefit canal and other interests
Polwarth - Monday 22 November 2010 Discussion notes n.b. Not many people had had opportunity to see the consultation document prior to the meeting (or knew about it), and there were insufficient documents at the meeting to go around. Discussion tended to veer off from the consultation questions.
Section 1 General • Of those who had seen the consultation document and draft proposals, generally though it was fairly acceptable. Noted that it is very general – nothing very specific in it. Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
• Cockburn Association representative noted a current problem along the canal is a lack of lighting. • One person commented that lighting used to be provided by the brewery buildings. • Noted that there had been a lighting trial at Meggetland last week, using LEDs or something similar – attended by CEC cycling officer and British Waterways. People that had seen it liked it. • Comments about the greenery next to the towpath – some thought it wasn’t maintained sufficiently, others thought it was deliberately left for biodiversity reasons. Issues/conflicts • Not everyone agreed that busier = better (variety of opinions in the group). Main concern against this was a perception that cyclists are very inconsiderate and can cause a safety hazard for pedestrians. Suggested solutions: o there are areas where there is an opportunity for widening the towpath, e.g by Meggetland, or even all the way along. o signage to demarcate pedestrian and cyclist areas, o signage about considerate usage of the canal (aimed at cyclists, runners, dog walkers and pedestrians), o a publicity campaign and events about polite use of the canal, o distribution of the existing Spokes leaflet on towpath cycling. o One person suggested speed bumps on the stretch beside Harrison Park. Others disagreed – felt that they posed to great a safety issue. o police patrols as a deterrent to antisocial behaviour (apparently these are now planned?). • Other areas of potential conflict: canal boat vs watersport boats. General support for the established watersports and concerns that too much of an increase in motorised boats could cause problems for rowers etc. Opportunities • An interpretation centre, either at Cargo end, or Harrison Park – similar to the Water of Leith interpretation centre, and with a matching one in Glasgow. Suggestion that this could be funded through Section 75. • More information along the canal about history, wildlife, etc. • Someone noted that the existing ones are done by schoolkids and suggested it could be an annual project, on different subjects such as wildlife, safety etc. General agreement that there are strong opportunities for training and education. • Noted that as a short-term / temporary measure, the vacant units near Cargo could be utilised for interpretation panels in the windows. • Canal boat also suggested as a good interpretation centre. • New development should face onto the canal and provide more open access to the canal and green spaces which relate to the canal. Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
• Noted that there is a section in the middle of the canal with inadequate access – bridge goes across canal but no access to it. One person worried that putting pedestrian access here would fall foul of the DA regs because you couldn’t provide disabled access, but there was a general opinion access should be put here anyway. Was noted that there was an alternative (although less convenient) site, slightly closer to the city, which might provide disabled access. • Active frontage along the canal, including low-rise buildings with cafes etc would be good.
Section 2 Sustainable waterway, design • There could be much more signage to the canal/at the canal entrance – at the moment you could walk down the street and not know that it’s there. Discussion about “brown” direction signs or specific canal entrance signage (like that at Water of Leith) – general agreement that something which contributed to identity is preferable. • Should be more leaflets etc about the canal available at tourist information centres, although conversely, one person felt that there is a balance between promotion and over-promotion, and people agreed they did not want “party boats”. • n.b. p10 of the document has the wrong cycle route number – apparently it should be 754. • There should be management of graffiti (stopping it rather than encouraging it!) • Developments should follow secured by design principles • Bit of debate about that style/design developments should have. Consensus that don’t want Disney or Poundbury - esque, but one person not keen on “stark” modern buildings, while someone else alluded to the industrial heritage of the area and felt that well-designed “stark” could be very appropriate in the right context. Example of a development that was seen to be bad was at Kennington Bridge. • Noted that a development is more interesting if there is variety in heights – breaks it up a bit. • Want mixed-use to give interest, vibrancy, security. • Don’t want bog-standard off-the-peg designs. • Probably want a materials guide. • Springside was agreed to be a good example of high quality architecture and public realm – relates to its surroundings, provides interesting, well-connected spaces for people to move through.
Section 3 Hubs • Hubs idea is fine as long as the environmental improvements (e.g. widening path, lighting) are not restricted to within the hub boundaries. • Agreement that the canal can accommodate moorings in both Ratho and the city centre, and that there is a need for both. Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
• Suggested there should be a few moorings at Wester Hailes too, because there are good public transport links to the city centre. • Suggested that there should be a mini boating hub at Craiglockhart – an existing unique feature which should be recognised.
Section 4 Canal quarter • Need strategy for access, design, lighting and signage. • Currently quite cramped in the basin, and not much room to accommodate a big increase in boating activity. • To increase activity by any large amount, would need another basin or widening of the existing one. • Pedestrian routes around / through the basin should be improved. Example given of the pub tables outside Cargo taking up all the paved area, and blocking pedestrian routes. • Needs something at the basin that expresses the area’s history. Missed opportunities • Access to & visibility of canal • public toilets • seating – urban design / street furniture should help people use the area. • Need to take biodiversity issues into account – more soft landscaping, new trees, planting. • Public realm needs to be coherent from Cargo to Viewforth. • Potential for alternative/complementary pedestrian and cycle routes linking with or parallel to the canal. This could help provide alternative routes into the city centre, reducing the clash between pedestrians and commuter cyclists. • Looking at other areas where the strategy could be connected into existing and proposed initiatives.
Tollcross
• Need to consider smaller development issues e.g. massing etc
• Coventry is a bad example
• Lack of conveniences / shops along canal / small vendors
• Strategy needs to have strong principles
• Improve connections with areas not immediately linked with canal
• Destination points / mini hubs
• Canalside developments need to be human scale, not high offices Appendix 3 EDINBURGH CANAL STRATEGY Pre-draft consultation comments
• More boats on water with a mix of different uses
• How do we connect people to the canal