Europe’s first ‘Smart Canal’ sweeps top awards 04

Judges were also impressed by the “strategic vision of the project, its scale and the positive impact it will have on the city of Glasgow.” The project has paved the way for the much-needed development of over 3,000 homes in the north of the city. The use of existing infrastructure, as opposed to creating a new drainage system, also saw massive CO2 efficiencies. Initial calculations indicate a capital saving of 5,000t CO2e and operational savings of 30,000t CO2e (equivalent to 85 million vehicle miles) over the lifespan of the project. The project has also received an International Green Apple Environment Award 2021 for promoting environmental best practice across the globe. The potential to spread this technology for wider use around the world is considerable. Peter Robinson, Head of Engineering at Scottish Canals said:

“The recognition that the Glasgow Smart Canal project is receiving is testimony to all those who have contributed over a number of years, including Scottish Canals’ partners at Glasgow City Council and Scottish Water, with strong collaboration between Mackenzie Construction, the design team at AECOM, and Fairfield Control Systems. Repurposing and doing more with existing infrastructure to minimise the impacts of delivering projects has to become a key focus when considering 70% of carbon emissions are associated with infrastructure and construction. This project proves that by adopting such approaches and working collaboratively to do more with less can be the least impactful option.” Andy Dalrymple, Managing Director at Mackenzie Construction added:

“We are delighted to see the NGIWMS project receiving widespread industry recognition. The industry today requires innovation and collaboration to shape its future and we are proud to have worked alongside Scottish Canals to deliver this revolutionary project that will have such a positive impact for local communities in North Glasgow.”

Regeneration plans for North Glasgow