Enhancements at Canalside in West Edinburgh promote smoother local commutes
Scotland's Union Canal Towpath Transforms into a Traffic-Free Cycling and Walking Corridor
West Edinburgh's Union Canal towpath has received a significant makeover, transforming into a traffic-free cycling and walking corridor. The improvements, completed by early August 2025, were made possible by funding exceeding £900,000 from the Scottish Government [1].
This investment is part of a larger £188 million allocation for active and sustainable transport throughout Scotland in 2025-26. The aim is to promote healthier lifestyles, reduce car usage, and lower emissions by improving infrastructure for active travel such as walking and cycling [1].
The project was developed and delivered through a partnership between Scottish Canals and a specific website. The works included resurfacing the previously rough and uneven path to create a fully accessible surface suitable for cycling, walking, and wheelchair use. Additional lighting was installed to make year-round use safer and more convenient [1].
Community feedback, as represented by statements from Sustrans’ Director for the National Cycle Network, indicates strong support and optimism that the improvements will lead to increased local use of this traffic-free route for everyday journeys. The better surface and lighting improve accessibility and encourage more people to benefit from the canal as a recreational and commuting corridor [1].
Partners Scottish Canals, along with National Cycle Network Director Carole Patrick and Senior Network Development Manager Neill Malone, joined to open the new path on Cycle to Work Day on 7th August [1].
The improvements to the Union Canal towpath are a key link in West Edinburgh and connect onto the popular National Cycle Network Route 75. More traffic-free cycle paths, such as through parks or along waterways, would help 73% of residents to cycle more [1]. Similarly, better pavement accessibility, such as level surfaces and dropped kerbs at crossing points, would help 72% of Edinburgh residents walk or wheel more [1].
In summary, the Union Canal towpath enhancement represents a significant improvement to the walking and cycling infrastructure in West Edinburgh, supporting National Cycle Network Route 75 [1]. The regenerated towpath surface, added lighting, and improved accessibility are expected to encourage more people to adopt active travel choices, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable community.
The Union Canal towpath's transformation into a traffic-free corridor gives an opportunity for locals to enjoy a healthier lifestyle by incorporating cycling into their fashion-and-beauty routines or as a daily commuting option. The newly renovated walkway, with its smooth surface and better lighting, also aligns with the home-and-garden ambiance, making it appealing for leisurely strolls. Furthermore, the improved infrastructure could inspire residents to explore the area through travel and discover new fashion-and-beauty trends or unique food-and-drink spots along the route.
