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Our new Blue Motion project is helping people in Edinburgh
discover and explore the Union Canal, Water of Leith and nearby
forest and woods.
As well as improving their health and well-being, participants
are learning about their local heritage, the natural environment
and the Outdoor Access Code.
School programme
Pupils from Canalview and Cloverntone Primary schools in Wester
Hailes are experiencing a range of activities through the project
including:
- Guided wildlife and heritage walks
- Boat trip along the canal
- Water safety workshop
- Conservation work such as tree planting, habitat creation,
wildflower planting etc
The children are also using Blue Motion as part of the Discovery
Level of their John Muir Award.
Community programme
People from local community groups are also benefiting from the
project. As well as guided walks, they are undertaking Walk Leader
Training, learning about first aid and have the chance to do the
John Muir Award.
Canal Adoptions
Everyone taking part in Blue Motion is encourage to get involved
with the Canal Adoption scheme. This involves the school or
community group agreeing to look after a mile-long stretch of the
canal or river, and undertaking regular environmental and
conservation tasks along the waterway for 2-3 years.
Outcomes
Along with improving their health & fitness, by the end of
the project, everyone who has taken part will have a better
understanding of, respect for and willingness to protect local
wildlife and places.
Participants will also have a greater understanding of the
issues around water and personal safety when walking or playing in
the outdoors. The waterways will continue to benefit from this
new-found knowledge through the Canal Adoptions.
Partners
ReUnion, British Waterways Scotland, Edinburgh Council Parks,
Forestry Commission Scotland
Funders
Scottish Natural Heritage