SCOTLAND’S “internationally recognisable” Kelpies have generated 16 times more for the local economy than they cost – and that could double or even triple over the next decade, according to one executive.
John Paterson, who runs Scottish Canals, said that an independent report he commissioned in tandem with Falkirk Council had this year found they had generated £81 million and created 100 new full-time equivalent jobs since they opened to the public 10 years ago.
Given that the statues cost £5m, Paterson said this was “a fabulous investment for Scotland, a fabulous return on that investment”.
He went on: “So in 10 years time, I hope to … talk about doubling those figures, if not trebling those figures and economic benefits to Scotland.”
Paterson was speaking at the opening of the Kelpies Experience, an aerial obstacle course which has been installed inside Baron – the taller of the two equine statues.
The second one, which is looking towards the water rather than rearing its head, is called Duke. SculpterAndy Scott based the pair on Clydesdale horses, but they represent a creature from Scottish folklore: kelpies.
The statues are around 100-feet high and 300 tonnes, and for the first time people will be invited inside the scale up to the top – and glimpse the Forth Valley and canal network from within Baron’s mouth.
“Today is about stepping up a level, and it's part of that 200-year-old journey. It's about transforming an asset that we currently have, that we all love, the Kelpies, now icons of Scotland, internationally recognisable.
“You cannot climb two kelpies. You can only climb one kelpie and you can only do it here in Falkirk and Grangemouth. It's a unique worldwide experience and attraction for tourists.
“It's a platform especially for third-party funding, for charities to use for the benefit of the people of Scotland and to grow that economic benefit.”
It is hoped that charities will use the assault course as the centrepiece of sponsored challenges, helping to increase the public good done by the Kelpie statues.
“From the initial concept to its design, construction, and operation, our shared vision with Scottish Canals has been to create an aerial adventure that also takes visitors on a journey through the rich history, engineering marvel and cultural significance of this iconic artwork.”
And Charlene Low, the regional fundraising manager for Beatson Cancer Charity, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Scottish Canals for the launch of The Kelpies Experience! It’s a fantastic way to celebrate our 10th birthday, offering our supporters a one-of-a-kind adventure inside the Kelpies while raising vital funds to support cancer patients and their families.
“This unforgettable experience brings people together to explore, connect, and make a real impact."
The Kelpies Experience is expected to open to the wider public in due course.
