The Nature of Scotland Awards is all about celebrating the success of those who work hard to protect and enrich Scotland’s natural environment.
The awards make it possible to spread the word about the many great people and initiatives across the country, with some truly inspirational stories to shout about.
In Kilsyth, the Garrell Burn restoration project was Highly Commended in the RSPB Nature of Scotland Awards event in Edinburgh’s International Conference Centre. The project was initiated by SEPA and North Lanarkshire council who appointed George Leslie along with WSP.
Work at Dumbreck Local Nature Reserve has seen the re-naturalisation of 600m of the Garrell Burn with two new fish passes created, improvements to the wetland habitat, new paths created, two bridges replaced and a new one installed, and two boardwalks upgraded.
The project has also improved the nature reserve to conserve the wetland habitat and species such as invertebrates, water voles and wetland birds, and the two new fish passes are designed to allow migration of salmon as well as sea trout and eels.
Frances Hayes, Water Specialist at SEPA accepted the award at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.
David Ross, Managing Director of George Leslie said: “When we were tasked with delivering the project, our main focus was to conserve the habitats for a variety of species and the re-naturalisation of the Garrell Burn to deliver a legacy that will benefit the people of Kilsyth today, and for generations to come.
Dr Rebecca Wade, Senior Lecturer at Abertay University who teaches civil engineers about natures’ interaction with the built environment said: “Congratulations Francis and team. I was so pleased to see this restoration project recognised. Well done for the commendation.”