Why canal towpaths are good for people, the environment, and local economy
"OS data plays a vital role in the operations of Scottish Canals. It’s essential for defining ownership boundaries, calculating lengths and volumes of canal sections, and supporting engineers in both new developments, and ongoing projects. The OS National Geospatial Data (OS NGD) platform enables Scottish Canals to efficiently locate, extract, and package the necessary geospatial data to support these activities."
Scottish Canals’ towpaths—those scenic paths running alongside the country's historic waterways—are much more than just pretty places for a stroll. They’re important spaces that benefit local communities, health, and the environment, in ways that many people might not even realise. Whether you walk the dog, cycle to work, or simply enjoy being close to nature, towpaths are making a huge difference to everyday life in Scotland.
"One of the biggest benefits of towpaths is how they help people stay healthy and active. They provide safe, flat routes for walking, running, and cycling, which makes it easier for people of all ages and abilities to get moving. Spending time outdoors, especially near blue and green space, is also great for our mental health. It helps us unwind, reduce stress, and feel more connected to the world around us. "
Scottish Canals used data from the National Geographic Database (OS NGD). This allowed them to gain a clear picture of their canal towpaths.
"I was able to use the NGD data to pull the actual canal polygons so that we had more than just a centre line defining the canals, this was a big step forward in being able to calculate volumes and areas in the canals."
William Adam, GIS Specialist for Scottish Canals explains,
"Towpaths are also perfect for getting around without using a car. Many people use them to walk or cycle to work, school, or the shops. Because they’re away from busy roads, they’re quieter and safer for everyone, including families with children or people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Choosing to travel this way not only saves money—it also helps cut down on traffic and pollution.
These paths are more than just travel routes—they’re also places where communities come together. People meet up with neighbours, take part in group walks, or get involved in projects like litter picks or planting flowers. Towpaths can bring a real sense of pride to an area and help people feel more connected to where they live.
Businesses also benefit when towpaths are busy. Cafes, pubs, bike hire shops, and visitor attractions along the canals get more customers, helping support jobs and boost the local economy. Towpaths are a real draw for visitors too—many tourists are keen to explore these scenic, off-the-beaten-path routes.
Just as importantly, towpaths are good for nature and the environment. Canals and the green spaces around them are home to birds, insects, fish, and all kinds of other wildlife. The plants along the paths help support pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are vital for healthy ecosystems. These green corridors also help wildlife move safely through towns and countryside.
By encouraging people to walk and cycle more, towpaths help reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. The trees and plants along the canal can also help manage rainwater and reduce the risk of flooding in nearby areas. In short, they’re an important part of making Scotland’s towns and cities more environmentally friendly and resilient.
And finally, towpaths offer great opportunities to learn and explore. Whether you’re a family looking for a weekend adventure or a school taking a nature walk, the canals are full of chances to discover Scotland’s natural beauty and rich history.
Scottish Canals towpaths are a fantastic resource for everyone. They help us live healthier, more active lives, bring communities together, support local wildlife, and make travel greener and more enjoyable. So, whether you're out for a quiet walk or cycling to work, you're doing more than you think—you're helping create a better Scotland for people and for nature."
What is the OS NGD?
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