British Waterways Scotland (BWS) has confirmed that a scheme to create a new canal canoe trail have received a funding boost from the European Union (EU).

A major grant towards the development of the Great Glen Canoe Trail has been awarded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme. The EU award will complement the funding already confirmed by partners involved with the scheme, including BWS, the Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland.

Work is now set to get underway on the 100km (62.1-mile) trail, which will run between Fort William and Inverness and will incorporate four lochs - Loch Ness, Loch Oich, Loch Lochy and Loch Dochfour. Amenities will include a purpose-built waymarked trail for paddlers with low-level access pontoons at each of the Caledonian Canal's locks and bridges, as well as a number of 'Trailblazer Rests' - informal campsites with shelters, toilets and fire pits.

In addition to an interpretative plan for the route, termini markers will be placed at each end of the trail and a range of new promotional material - a website, a DVD and trail map - will also be produced. Russell Thomson, BWS waterway manager - Highlands, said: "By working together with our partners, we can establish this exciting new destination for international and national paddlesport enthusiasts but also, importantly, build upon our other, established partnership initiative, the Great Glen Ways.

"Together, the Great Glen Ways, which promotes the excellent opportunities for travelling through the region by 'Boot, Boat and Bike', and the Great Glen Canoe Trail will help further position the Highlands as a world class, year round choice for outdoor recreation, a must-visit destination." Following confirmation of EU funding, a new project officer has now been appointed as part of the scheme, which is expected to see the first phase centred on canoe pontoons at Clachnaharry and Dochgarroch completed in April 2010. The full trail is due for completion by spring 2012.