River Almond walkway plan needs public support

Residents are urged to support action plan

West area residents are being urged to support a 10-year action plan to promote wildlife and improve public access to the River Almond walkway.

Public consultation has been carried out this year on how the site can be managed more positively.

The plan is being implemented by the Council’s Countryside Ranger Service, based at Hermitage House in south central Edinburgh.

It will focus initially on improving access and conserving wildlife by creating hedge features, improving native tree stock, removing and controlling non native invasive species such as laurel, balsam and knotweed. These actions are due to be implemented over the autumn and winter months.

A feasibility study has also been set up to look at the possibility of traversing the rocky outcrop which is currently accessed using the Salvesen Steps, which are near the end of their lifespan.

The study has also looked at formalising the route upstream with the eventual prospect of linking the walkway all the way into West Lothian.

New ways to display information and interpret the industrial heritage and wildlife are programmed for years three to five of the plan.

Countryside Ranger David Kyles said that to ensure the walkway realised its full potential, it was essential actions were spearheaded by the community.

“A key aspect within the whole process is the establishment of a group of people with the river and walkway at the heart of what they do.

“Currently, groups such as the Cramond Heritage Trust, Edinburgh North West Eco Club, the Cramond Angling Club and Cramond and Barnton Community Council all contribute in their own ways.

“What we need is a group with a direct focus to bring a more cohesive approach. We are calling on anyone interested in the future of this unique area to contact us.”

Need to know

For more information, e-mail david.kyles@edinburgh.gov.uk, countrysiderangers@edinburgh.gov.uk or call 0131 447 7145.