The first phase of the build will include construction of the marina basin which is due to open to canal users in spring 2021. Following this work will begin on a second phase which will include further landscaping, as well as pontoons, moorings and a facilities building.

Winchburgh marina is the first new marina to open on the Union Canal since 2014 and includes 20 marina berths as well as new leisure and commercial spaces. The opening of the marina comes as the Union Canal approaches its 200th anniversary, with the construction of the canal taking four years from 1818 to 1822.

The marina will be located at the heart of the new town centre and will connect via a footbridge to the new Daisy Park, as well as providing access to the Union Canal towpath. A further 29 canal moorings will be added in a final phase of the development.

Pierre Puyrigaud, senior development manager at Winchburgh Developments Limited, said: “For the past ten years we have been working closely with Scottish Canals to fulfil our ambition to deliver a new marina on the Union Canal at Winchburgh. It’s very exciting for us and the entire community to now see work beginning on site. This new marina will provide a host of amenities for locals and visitors, including new leisure facilities, opportunities for new restaurant and café spaces, and new homes.”

Catherine Topley, CEO, Scottish Canals, added: “The start of works at Winchburgh Marina cements Scottish Canals place within this historic village and demonstrates our commitment to regenerating Scotland’s canal network. This fantastic development will create new and exciting opportunities for people to live and work on our canals for years to come. The new marina at Winchburgh coincides with the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Union Canal, showcasing that Scotland’s canals have adapted to meet the needs of the 21st century.”

Pete Nisbet, vice chairperson of Winchburgh Community Council, said: “It’s no secret that back in 2005 when we first saw these plans, many locals never believed that they would see the day that Winchburgh would have its own marina. Needless to say, everyone is thrilled now that this indeed is going to become a reality. It’s a real boost for the community to see work commencing and something that we can all now look forward to watching take shape.”

Duncan Brown, director at I&H Brown, added: “We have been working with Winchburgh Developments Ltd for a number of years supporting the delivery of the Winchburgh masterplan. We are delighted to have been awarded the contract to construct the new canal marina which is so crucial to the success of this development and will provide a great focal point for the community alongside the new town centre.”

Winchburgh canal marina will provide new leisure facilities for both the local community and visitors, including new commercial spaces suitable for restaurant and café facilities. It will be well connected to the town’s other green spaces, including the new Daisy Park, via a network of footpaths as well as national cycle routes ensuring that it is easily accessible.

Last week Winchburgh Developments Ltd also announced a new contract with J Smart & Co. for 64 new apartments and townhouses overlooking the marina. Canal Quarter, will comprise a total of 50 one, two and three bedroom apartments as well as 14 three-bed townhouses set within landscaped grounds. Many of the apartments will enjoy views looking out across the new marina, to the canal and beyond.