THE next phase of a project to enhance natural flood management measures in the Allan Water has been announced.

The Greenloaning phase 2 project, undertaken by the Forth Rivers Trust, will serve to enhance the Allan Water and its surrounding habitats.

This is following on from the success of the Revive the Allan campaign and the Greenloaning phase 1, which set the aim of reversing the impacts of historical floodplain drainage.

Phase 2 of the project will include cutting rank vegetation to improve biodiversity and improve lie of the land, while also installing leaky dams and enhancing drainage ditch redirection.

Led by Forth Rivers Trust, the project will upscale natural flood management measures, creating vital wetland habitats and boosting biodiversity.

Jonathan Louis, co-director of Forth Rivers Trust, said: “The ‘Greenloaning phase 2’ project is a significant step in restoring the Allan Water.

“Building on our past successes, this project offers an opportunity to expand natural flood management techniques, strengthen ecosystems, and address climate change impacts.

“We look forward to working closely with landowners and stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes for both nature and communities.

The Allan Water rises in the Ochil Hills north of Menstrie, running through Strathallan to Dunblane and Bridge of Allan.

In extreme weather, the Allan Water is liable to cause flooding in Bridge of Allan and nearby areas.

Forth Rivers Trust are collaborating with the landowner, Blackford Farms, the EU Merlin Project and NatureScot to deliver the project.

The project is supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund and has been match-funded by the EU Merlin Project.

Nigel Murray, general manager of Blackford Estates, added: “Further enhancement of the Allan Water, with the works of Greenloaning phas 2 continuing to reduce flood risk, while also encouraging the scope for declining species that need our help, is a definite win-win.”

Alongside enhancing the natural flood management measures, this project will also help boost biodiversity and create space for nature.

This will help provide a haven for declining species, while also protecting communities downstream from flood events.

Katherine Leys, head of biodiversity at NatureScot, said: “It’s great to see the floodplain habitat along the Allan Water being revived and enhanced with support from the Nature Restoration Fund.

“This is one of many NRF-funded projects that are putting Scotland’s land and waters back on the road to recovery, while tackling the nature and climate emergencies.”