Fife Council, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), and Fife Coast and Countryside Trust are joining forces to restore a 5.8-kilometre stretch of the Back Burn, a tributary of the River Leven. The project, known as "Restoring the Back Burn," is the latest phase of the wider Leven Programme and aims to return the waterway to a more natural state while improving biodiversity, reducing flood risk, and creating new green spaces for the community.

The Back Burn, also known locally as the Conland, Coul, and Balbirnie Burn, flows between Rhind Hill in the Lomond Hills and Newton, north of Markinch. Centuries of industrial activity and modifications have degraded the burn, impacting its natural flow and wildlife habitat.

The restoration project is now in its final design stage, with cbec eco-engineering appointed as technical designers. Works are planned for summer 2025 and will focus on two key areas:


• Coul Den Reservoir: Restoration of the original watercourse, removal of concrete and gabion baskets, creation of step-pools for fish passage, and construction of new bridge and boardwalk crossings.

• Balbirnie Park: Removal of man-made weirs, installation of step-pools, replacement of gabion baskets with natural bank protection measures, and construction of new footpaths.

"This project is an incredible opportunity to transform the Back Burn into a thriving natural habitat," said Councillor Jan Wincott, Fife Council spokesperson for environment and climate change. "We're building on the success of the River Leven restoration to create a space for residents and visitors to connect with nature."

The project is supported by funding from the Scottish Government's Water Environment Fund (WEF) and Fife Council. Expected benefits include:

• Increased biodiversity through improved habitats for plants and animals.

• Enhanced green spaces for recreation and well-being.

• Improved climate resilience through natural flood management.

• Protected heritage while creating space for nature in urban settings.

Lynda Gairns, River Restoration Specialist at SEPA, said: "We're delighted to see the Back Burn restoration project progress to the works phase this summer. Following the success of the River Leven project, we look forward to further improvements for Fife's rivers."

Community engagement is a key aspect of the project, with details and updates to be shared in due course.