River restoration project to reduce flood risk

27 September 2018

An exciting new river restoration project designed to restore the Glazert Water to a more natural condition and minimise the likelihood of flooding in the River Kelvin Catchment downstream is one step closer.

The proposal for the Glazert River Restoration Project in the heart of Lennoxtown is the result of a study commissioned by SEPA and the Scottish Government to restore natural waterways.

The aim is to provide flood risk benefits to the River Kelvin and to reduce the likelihood of flooding to communities in Kirkintilloch and Torrance. The restoration work will physically restore the Glazert watercourse in Lennoxtown.

This will also enhance the water quality and revitalise the wildlife corridor serving the communities of north Kirkintilloch, Milton of Campsie, Lennoxtown, Clachan of Campsie and Haughhead.

Councillor Billy Hendry, Convener of Place, Neighbourhood and Corporate Assets Committee, said:

The proposed works will provide protection for communities previously affected by flooding and the wider area will also become more resilient to the type of extreme weather events that climate change is likely to bring. The works would also enhance opportunities for outdoor access and recreation.”

Terry A’Hearn, SEPA’s Chief Executive, said:

Every day SEPA works to protect and enhance Scotland’s environment, and we are committed to using partnerships as our principal way of delivering environmental outcomes.

“This exciting project to improve the condition of the Glazert Water is good news for local communities and the environment. This will restore wildlife and habitats along the river, minimise the likelihood of flooding and improve amenity for locals. We will continue to work with our partners to help ensure the sustainable future of the Glazert Water.”

SEPA will provide technical expertise on the project and have received match WEF (Water Environment Fund) funding from Scottish Government.

The project aims to reconnect the river back to the original flood plain which will have benefits for areas downstream where risk of flooding will be reduced. Improved water quality will help to increase biodiversity. Historically, industrial pollution including red ore from mining in the area had reduced the water quality of the Glazert river.

The next stage is to produce a detailed plan which would then be subject to approval. If the proposal gets the green light, the project would take three years from detailed design to completion in 2021.

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