Visitors to Crinan Canal Basin benefit from improved landscaping and access routes
A major programme of improvements to the landscape and access routes around the Crinan Basin has transformed the experience of visitors. Completed this year, following a series of public consultations, the improvements were funded by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and Argyll and Bute Council.
In 2024, Scottish Canals engaged with local communities, visitors and stakeholders on proposals to improve accessibility around the basin. Feedback helped shape the final designs, ensuring the project balanced the operational requirements of the canal with the needs of those who use and enjoy the space.
Construction commenced in 2025, delivering a series of improvements designed to remove barriers and create safer, more intuitive routes throughout the basin.
The accessibility improvements were delivered through a partnership between Scottish Canals and Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, with funding provided by Transport Scotland. Funding to support improved access around Lock 14, including new ramped paths and steps to the bus stop was provided by the Scottish Government through Argyll and Bute Council's Active Travel Infrastructure Fund.
New accessible ramps now provide step-free access to lock gate crossings at Locks 14 and 15. These were carefully designed to respond to the challenges of working within a historic environment, where existing level changes varied significantly across the site. Scheduled Monument Consent was granted by Historic Environment Scotland.
The project strengthens links to the National Cycle Network by creating more accessible walking, wheeling and cycling connections throughout the basin. New whinstone paths have been constructed around Lock 15 and the historic dummy lock, alongside a widened section of towpath forming part of National Cycle Network Route 78.
A new walkway at the western end of the dummy lock now provides improved connectivity between the towpath and the western side of the basin. The structure has been designed to reflect the character of lock walkways while remaining fully demountable, allowing flexibility for future use elsewhere on the Scottish Canals network.
For the first time, visitors with limited mobility can experience a continuous fully accessible circular route around Crinan Basin and enjoy views across the water, locks and surrounding landscape without the need to negotiate steps.
The project also includes new cycle parking adjacent to the café, helping visitors arrive by bike. New steps, complete with handrails and improved visual contrast, provide safer access between the basin, the bus stop and the public toilets.
Landscape enhancements have further improved the visitor experience, with a community herb garden providing an attractive welcome for boaters, visitors and local residents alike.
Sam Shaw, Development Manager at Scottish Canals, said: “Together, these improvements have removed more than 10 barriers to accessibility and created a more inclusive environment for people walking, wheeling and cycling. The project demonstrates how investment in Scotland's historic waterways can improve everyday access, support active travel and ensure that more people can enjoy the unique heritage of the Crinan Canal.”
Posted on 16th October 2026