Grangemouth
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Grangemouth is a burgh in the council area of Falkirk, Scotland, and formerly in the County of Stirling. It is located on the Firth of Forth 3 miles east of Falkirk. It is currently known for its large petrochemical plant. Population 18,500.
Grangemouth was founded by Sir Lawrence Dundas in 1777 and was built in conjunction with the eastern end of the Forth and Clyde Canal. It became prominent due to the canal traffic that passed through. High tarrifs at the port of Leith caused much traffic to come to Grangemouth instead. The re-opened canal no longer passes through the old part of Grangemouth, but joins the tidal River Carron, which has been deepened to allow access to the River Forth for canal traffic.
The Soap Works building which was used to manufacture soap and glycerine and owned by the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society was established in 1897. This was the largest works of its kind in Scotland and employed a considerable number of local people. This local landmark at the end of Wood Street opposite the Old Bus Garage was demolished in November 2005 to make way for the new Whyte & McKay blending and bottling plant. The plant has transformed the area and is a major contribution to the changing face of the old Newhouse area.
Grangemouth Port is also one of the main ports in the UK. With the largest container terminal in Scotland.
Twinned with La Porte, Indiana and with Creteil, Paris, France as part of Falkirk District.
Famous residents
- Robin Guthrie, Will Heggie and Elizabeth Fraser of 1980/90s band the Cocteau Twins, Steve Frew - Commonwealth Games gold medal winner, gymnastics.
International Schools Athletics
The 2006 Schools International Athletics Championships will be held in Grangemouth. The championships feature some of the best young athletes from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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