New heritage trail takes a walk through town’s industrial past

The trail features six sculptural markers which represent an important part of Kirkintilloch’s history and runs along the canal embankment between Southbank Marina and Hillhead Road.

The canal played an important role in Kirkintilloch’s life as a major trade route until its closure in 1963.

Canal users will be able to find out about the town’s boat building past, the Luggie Aqueduct, and the famous ironworks.

Sculptures commemorating the Basin Foundry, the Star Foundry and the Lion Foundry, which is most famous for the production of the red telephone boxes, can be enjoyed during a stroll along the canal bank.

The final art work is a collective sculpture of aluminium plaques designed and cast by children and adults.

The sculptures have been designed and made by local artists Elspeth Bennie and Becky Sik, as well as project volunteers, local young people and the town’s last surviving foundry Archibald Young Limited.

The project has been created by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust and Heritage Lottery funded project, Kirkintilloch’s Industrial Past.