For those of us living in central Scotland it is quite a surprise to discover that the ‘Helix is Happening‘ nearby. Due to open this September, the Helix is an ambitious, even visionary, project aimed at transforming space between Grangemouth and Falkirk into a landscape of paths, waterways, public art, sports facilities and leisure services. The project has been developed with a £25 million Lottery Fund by Falkirk Council, Central Scotland Forest Trust and British Waterways Scotland and will be run by the Falkirk Community Trust. It is hoped it will connect communities, build confidence and transform public perception about this area of Scotland.

The Helix has a biodiverse agenda and has been designed to encourage walking, running, cycling and boating as well as making provision for allotments and beekeeping. In addition to attracting visitors to the area it also intends to become a resource for materials, training and employment for many years to come.

Set to tower 30 metres above the Forth and Clyde Canal, the Kelpies, by sculptor Andy Scott, will no doubt become the symbol of both the Helix and of this region of Scotland. The two massive horse heads have been conceived as a tribute to the horse powered heritage of central Scotland and will form a dramatic gateway to the eastern entrance to the park. Follow their progress from concept to gigantic reality here.