Waterways Ireland says it is 'well advanced in our preparations' for the Ulster Canal Restoration Project, following the announcement of 'significant funding' for the scheme on Friday.
Over €6m from the Shared Island Fund was granted to support Phase Two of the project between Clones and Clonfad in Monaghan.
Waterways Ireland's Acting Chief Executive, John Mc Donagh, says the Ulster Canal will be complemented by the Ulster Canal Greenway when it's completed.
Phase 1 of the restoration work was finished in 2019, and Phase 2 will see the construction of a marina beside the Canal Stores and the restoration of the section from Clones to Clonfad.
Work is expected to begin early next year and Waterways Ireland says it's ready to 'mobilise' the project, having already carried out preliminary engineering studies into the works.