When completed The Helix will see over 750,000 trees planted, the creation of five biodiversity nature parks; 34km of paths and cycle tracks; a 1.85km canal link created linking Grangemouth on the River Forth into Scotland's canal network.

Two 30m horse heads designed by world renowned equine sculptor Andy Scott - and based on the mythical Scots ‘Kelpie' - will function as a boat lift at the entrance to the Forth and Clyde canal, making them the largest equine sculptures in the world.

Falkirk Council has led the successful bid for this massive lottery grant in partnership with BW and the Central Scotland Forest Trust. The Helix is a key project in the ‘My Future’s In Falkirk’ economic regeneration initiative for the Falkirk Council area.

'The Helix includes a number of innovative elements, all of which combine to create a truly landmark project,' said Steve Dunlop, director Scotland at BW. 'The breathtaking Kelpie boatlift is quite simply an engineering marvel which is set to become a major tourism asset for Scotland, attracting visitors from across the globe.'

The 1.85km new canal link from the existing sea lock down the River Carron will create a constant level waterway that will solve the current access problems caused by large tidal range, fast currents, and low bridges. The access window from the Firth of Forth will therefore be much less restrictive.

Work is expected to start in 2008 and will progress over three distinct phases and will span a 10 year period and beyond.