Led by Green Action Trust
During the development phase, a suite of nature-based proposals was developed with the intention of improving connections between habitats which are
Click here to view our interactive Storymap of the entire Nature Network proposal which was designed by RaeburnFarquharBowen. To deliver this in full would require over £6million of funding, therefore we have prioritised an initial phase for construction with input from all engaged stakeholders.
Phase 1 of the Nature Network is focussed on holding water within the natural environment. During periods of heavy rainfall, surface water flooding can pose risk to health and safety, disruptions and damage to infrastructure, while also overwhelming the drainage network resulting in combined sewer overflows into the river.
Heavy rainfall will be much more common in a climate changed world and this issue will require a mix of solutions. A significant solution is vastly increasing greenspaces in urban environments and ensuring the rainwater is managed in the right way.
That’s what this phase intends to do from Poplar Road to the riverbank. Various environmental interventions will be constructed to carry rainwater from Poplar Road into the River Park. The water will travel through the historic Kirkland mill lade down towards floodplain ponds and swampy / boggy areas of the environment.
This will have additional benefits of providing more diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife, as will a mix of planting this project will deliver including woodland, blossom trees, fruiting hedgerow and herb-rich meadow.
The Nature Network project values the existing wildlife and the range of habitat types found along the River Leven, and aims to increase this value by creating a more climate resilient environment for all.