Template:FP-Union Canal

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The aqueduct bearing the Union canal over the Avon in West Lothian

Union Canal

The Union Canal is a canal which extends from Falkirk in Stirlingshire to Edinburgh in Midlothian, constructed to bring minerals, especially coal, to Edinburgh. It was opened in 1822 and was initially successful, but the construction of railways, particularly the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway, opened in 1842, diminished its value as a transport medium. It fell into slow commercial decline and became disused in the 1930s.

It shares in the revival of interest in canals generally at the present day, and received a boost when the Millennium Link was completed in 2000, reconnecting it to the Forth and Clyde Canal. It is now in popular use for leisure purposes. (Read more)