1769
The route from Monkland coalfield is surveyed by engineer James Watt in response to the growth of Glasgow and the demand of coal in industry
The route from Monkland coalfield is surveyed by engineer James Watt in response to the growth of Glasgow and the demand of coal in industry
The Monkland Canal Company is formed and construction begins
The canal opens progressively, as short sections of canal are completed
Moneys runs out and construction stops at Germiston
Revenue from shares allow building to resume as far as Blackhill
The Forth & Clyde Canal Company funds the ‘Cut of Junction’ connecting the Monkland and Forth & Clyde Canals so they can both benefit from the additional water supply from surrounding rivers
The Garnkirk and Glasgow Railway opens. Other railways follow, eventually leading to direct competition with the canal
The Monkland Canal is the most profitable canal in Scotland, with income from tolls nearly 4 times its expenditure
The canal is taken over by The Forth & Clyde Canal Company
The inclined Plane, a system to move boats up and down the hill at Blackhills without the use of Locks, is constructed. The Inclined Plane was designed in 1839 by James Leslie
1million tonnes of coal has been transported along the canal
The canal is bought by the Caledonian Railway Company
The canal is closed to navigation
The canal is gradually filled in to make way for the construction of the M8 in Glasgow and new developments in Coatbridge
Drumpelier Park and Calderbank are still in water and are popular locations for nature and wildlife as well as leisure visitors