I NOTE with interest your recent coverage of the work of Scottish Canals (“Historic canal network set for £35 million revamp plan”, The Herald, September 7). Scottish Canals is an organisation which prides itself on communicating effectively and transparently with our customers, stakeholders and staff. Your article may have raised expectations and given the impression that we are preparing to begin a planned and significant programme of works.

This article stemmed from the publication of a pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) on the Scottish Government portal as part of the procurement process inviting interest in our Contractor Works Programme which is due for renewal. While the maximum value of the framework is £35m, made up of historical spend, planned projects and aspirational ambitions it is clearly stated in the PQQ that works included in the value of this framework are dependent on securing the necessary funding. As such there is no guarantee that the overall value of the Framework Agreement will reach this level.

This isn’t to say that we don’t have exciting plans for Scotland’s canals. We are committed to safeguarding the heritage of the network and investing to deliver the long-term sustainability of an important national asset

Steve Dunlop,

Chief executive, Scottish Canals,

1 Applecross Street, Glasgow.