Flood improvements given go-ahead at Pool of Muckhart

The Natural Devon – Pool of Muckhart Natural Flood Management Initiative has secured funding from NatureScot’s Nature Restoration Fund to deliver a series of improvements in the area.

The works will aim to support biodiversity whilst aiming to slow the flow through the creation of flood overflow channels, wetland scrapes and leaky dams.

The project, due to commence at the start of this month, is a partnership between Clackmannanshire Council, Pool of Muckhart Flood Group, Muckhart Church and Forth Rivers Trust.

Jonathan Bacon, from Pool of Muckhart Flood Group, said: “The community were conscious of the increased flood risk and impact the more intense rainfall was having on the existing storm flow provisions.

“Therefore, we set up a flood group that could work with Clackmannanshire Council and the resilience team to develop a strategy.

“The adoption of natural flood defences was preferred as it not only provides an effective solution but demonstrates the benefits of working with an environmental focus.

“We have also been able to engage with the local school,, residents and the workforce to learn, maintain and construct the project and to promote wider biodiversity in the community.”

The project aims to reduce the impact of flooding downstream by implementing natural flood management.

FLOOD MANAGEMENT: The Pool of Muckhart site has been designated to receive flood management improvements. Pictures provided by Forth Rivers Trust.

These measures restore natural processes and features which help contribute to a health catchment.

Cllr Fiona Law, Clackmannanshire Council’s spokesperson for environment and net zero, and champion for climate change, said she was hopeful of the impact the project will have.

She said: “The council is delighted to have been working on this joint natural flood management project with the Muckhart Flood Group, Forth Rivers Trust, local residents and landowners.

“The project aims to better protect properties from flood risk but also supports improved biodiversity and enhanced local habitat.

“The project’s delivery, with vital funding from NatureScot, clearly demonstrates that working in partnership with communities can deliver practical benefits for all involved.”

The first stage of the project will commence soon, with works taking place in the Glebe field.

Project managers aim to include a community event where residents can find out more and have their say on the work.

A wildflower seed sewing day will be had where community members can help the team spread wildflowers along the overflow channels and new scrapes.