How many canals can boast that they are partially buried under a motorway? Welcome to the story of the Monkland Canal. This waterway has a fascinating history. It played a crucial role in Glasgow’s industrial past.
The Monkland Canal stretches just over 12 miles. It was built to transport coal from the Monklands to Glasgow. This fueled the city’s growing industries. The canal’s construction began in 1770.
James Watt surveyed the route. He responded to Glasgow’s growing demand for coal. The Monkland Canal Company formed and started building. Sections of the canal opened progressively from 1771.
Money ran out in 1773. Construction stopped at Germiston. Revenue from shares allowed building to resume in 1780. Work continued as far as Blackhill.
In 1790-1791, the Forth and Clyde Canal Company stepped in. They funded the Cut of Junction. This connected the Monkland and Forth and Clyde Canals. Both canals benefited from the additional water supply.
The Garnkirk and Glasgow Railway opened in 1831. Other railways followed soon after. This led to direct competition with the Monkland Canal.
Despite the competition, the Monkland Canal thrived. In 1837, it became the most profitable canal in Scotland. Its income from tolls was nearly four times its expenditure.
The Forth and Clyde Canal Company took over the Monkland Canal in 1846. An inclined plane was built at Blackhill in 1849. James Leslie designed this system to move boats up and down the hill. It operated without the use of locks.
By 1850, the Monkland Canal had transported one million tonnes of coal. The Caledonian Railway Company bought the canal in 1867.
Sadly, the Monkland Canal closed to navigation in 1952. During the 1960s, much of the canal was filled. This made way for the M8 motorway in Glasgow. New developments in Coatbridge also contributed to its decline.
Today, two sections of the Monkland Canal remain visible. You can find them at Drumpellier Country Park and Summerlee Heritage Museum in Coatbridge. These stretches offer a glimpse into the canal’s importance.
Although no longer navigable, the Monkland Canal has been cleaned up. It now forms part of an enjoyable walk. The towpath and paths of Drumpellier are surrounded by woodland. A variety of wildlife resides here. You might spot roe deer, woodpeckers or reed buntings.
The Monkland Canal played a pivotal role in Scotland’s industrial history. It fueled Glasgow’s growth and connected communities. Although much of it is gone, its legacy lives on. Next time you are traveling on the M8, remember what is underneath. The Monkland Canal once thrived here bringing coal and prosperity to Glasgow.