Scotland's canal network is in line for a major revamp, following a £4.6 investment from the Scottish Government.

The funding will be in addition to the already agreed £10m grant-in-aid for Scottish Canals for 2012-13.

A new paddlesports centre will be developed to create a 'corridor of sport' along the Glasgow branch of the Forth & Clyde Canal.

A camping strategy will also be implemented at seven hubs along the Caledonian Canal.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "Scotland's canals provide a stunning setting for water-based leisure activity-supporting tourism, educational opportunities and the economy."

Other projects to benefit from the funding include the Great Glen Canoe Trail, a provision of locations and facilities for overnight canoe rest stops to encourage socially responsible camping.

The Living on Water initiative, which includes plans for facilities to permit implement-floating villages at Firhill and Grangemouth, will also benefit from the investment.Brown said: "Our canals are of historic significance, and are an asset we place great value on. Excellent progress has been made over the past decade in revitalising the network, and we are now keen to deliver a wider public benefit."