Falkirk Flight: Suspension of Boat Movements

Significant improvement works along the Forth & Clyde Canal Falkirk Flight are set to get underway.

The multi-year programme of works, between locks 3 and 16, will see the canal undergo a major lock-gate refurbishment and replacement programme.

Our engineers have completed a comprehensive assessment of the area and are now looking to commence works which have been prioritised and planned to ensure the canal can continue to operate safely for the next 20 plus years.

The project, funded from Scottish Canals’ Capital Investment Programme, will see us replace gates at locks 7,9,11, 14 and 16, and undertake further improvements to lock gates including cill replacement, quoin repair and over-planking. 

Update: Extended Scope of Work (20th December 2024)

Further investigations into the condition of the lock gates along the entire length of the Falkirk Flight have now taken place. This has allowed us to prioritise and develop a cost-effective and full programme of works.

As a result, we have now added gates 10, 12, 13 and 15 to the programme of those requiring replacement of the lower gates and additional upgrades. Locks 3 and 4 will be surveyed to understand the scope of improvements there too. 

Works will begin on the flight in January 2025 and updates will be posted here: Scottish Canals | Ongoing works.

Access to the Falkirk Flight

To accommodate the programme of works we require to suspend navigation from November 2024 with the aim of re-opening by March 2026.

The Carron Sea Lock (lock 2) will remain operational during the major works planned. As normal, use of the sea lock will be restricted to tide times and river current. There may also be some additional unplanned restrictions relating to water supply. All requests for boat movements must be booked in advance with our teams. Please call 07810 794 467 or email lowland.canals@scottishcanals.co.uk to make arrangements. 

As with any construction works, dates are subject to change and delays however we will seek to reduce the time navigation is suspended if any opportunity allows.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. For specific customer boat movement enquiries please contact our teams direct.

DOWNLOAD DETAILED MAPS OF THE WORKS