The Union and Forth & Clyde canals that flow through Falkirk in Scotland could be used to transport cargo in the not-too-distant future.

Transport minister Keith Brown recently announced plans to release funding so that more freight services can be launched on railways and waterways, thus freeing up more space on the nation's clogged road network.

According to the Falkirk Herald, the canals - which have not been in commercial use for more than 50 years - could play a big part in the government's plans.

A spokesman for Scottish Canals told the news provider that trial freight shipments have already been launched on the Caledonian canal in the Highlands and this could spread to other parts of the country, although it is still too early to say exactly where.

More and more firms are shipping cargo via the railways, as this is deemed to be far more eco-friendly than using lorries.

Last month, Mr Brown said he accepted that moving freight by inland waterways is not always the most cost-effective solution, which is why this extra funding has been released.