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February 2011
Work begins on Falkirk's Helix Project

Work begins on Falkirk's Helix Project

February 2 2011

Work has commenced on a £43m masterplan for 300 acres of land between Falkirk and Grangemouth, The Helix Project.

The scheme is intended to transform the DNA central Scotland through introduction of a new waterway connecting Grangemouth to the wider canal network, alongside new cycle and footpaths - but it is two 30m high Andy Scott designed horse sculptures which are most likely to turn heads.

Described by Falkirk Council leader Craig Martin as “unique and inspirational” they are intended to lure visitors to the site both locally and nationally.

The Helix is being brought forward by a partnership comprising Falkirk Council, British Waterways and the Central Scotland Forest Trust. Together with the support of the Big Lottery Fund who are stumping up £25m.

Phase one of the project is pencilled in for completion by summer 2013.

Extensive landscaping will transform a central portion of the site into a large park

Visitors will be encouraged to horse around

10 Comments

#1 Posted by thepatronage on 2 Feb 2011 at 13:31 PM

Falkirk and Grangemouth famous for horses?

#2 Posted by David Malley on 2 Feb 2011 at 19:13 PM

A total folly and complete waste of money.
Huge kelpies will be a total eyesore for years to come. Everyone involved should stop living in cloud cuckoo land and wake up!!

#3 Posted by insincere dave on 3 Feb 2011 at 12:48 PM

These sculptures that are appearing around the place are 100% not naff in the slightest.

#4 Posted by Tracy Adams on 3 Feb 2011 at 12:52 PM

Here here, in a time when money is scarce, can Scotland afford this kind of over the top tourism attraction which actually on the face of it is a park with public art. No tourist will fly to see this- it will be used by local dog walkers and the like.

#5 Posted by Auntie Nairn on 3 Feb 2011 at 14:04 PM

What on earth is that in the foreground of the main image! Please someone confirm that it is an existing 1970's parade of local authority built shops and not a part of the proposed £43m scheme - £43 Million - oh my giddy aunt.

#6 Posted by David Malley on 3 Feb 2011 at 17:21 PM

I agree with my namesake. More of these absurb blots on the landscape should be provided then the Council architects can design an equine stable block rather than locate street furniture and landscape works. Perhaps Lester Piggott or Frankie Dettori can be invited to the official opening!!

#7 Posted by tony malley on 4 Feb 2011 at 15:00 PM

Check your grammar Dave.Your emotions are running away with you like a riderless horse.

#8 Posted by David Malley on 4 Feb 2011 at 22:12 PM

oops that should have read 'absurd...apologies to all my readers...and also can I ask if the electricity pylons are staying or will they be 'photo-shoped' out of the tourist brochure?