British Waterways (BW) Scotland has submitted proposals for a new canal to link the rivers Clyde and Leven with Loch Lomond.

BW Scotland conducted a navigation feasibility study into the Lomond Canal project which, if given the go ahead, would be a catalyst to the regeneration of the Strathleven corridor.

Following the studies, BW Scotland has produced a technical framework that could: provide access between the Leven and Loch Lomond that is safe and attractive to users, provide a facility not only suitable for boaters but also attracts visiting public and tourists, provide flood prevention measures at at-risk areas, complement the existing build and environment surrounding the Leven and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the wider area.

John Swinney MSP, cabinet secretary for finance & sustainable growth, toured some of West Dunbartonshire’s regeneration areas including Bowling Basin and Dumbarton Harbour – starting points for the proposed Lomond Canal – on 18 February,

Iain Robertson of West Dunbartonshire Council said: “We are very encouraged by this visit from the Cabinet Minister. The council with its partners, British Waterways and Scottish Enterprise Dunbartonshire, is keen to progress this proposal, which would be Scotland’s newest waterway.

“The next stage is to conduct further studies such as environmental and economic appraisals, before putting the necessary funding in place to take the proposal forward. There is no doubt it would be of major benefit to the area and we feel it has enormous potential to become a popular destination with boating enthusiasts and visitors alike, providing an attractive link between the River Clyde and Loch Lomond and, effectively creating a new gateway route to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.”