We have launched a consultation inviting residents and members of the public have their say on the initial designs to relieve flood risk to Duns Park
The designs aim to reduce flood risk to Duns Park and the surrounding Bluidy Burn area by incorporating natural processes and nature-based solutions. This approach is expected to increase year-round accessibility and use of the surrounding spaces.
Funding
Ourselves and Tweed Forum successfully obtained grant funding from NatureScot and Greenspace Scotland to assess flood risks and identify potential nature-based solutions. The project will also explore digital methods for public engagement, using virtual rooms and platforms to collect wider community input.
Large sections of the park in the heart of the Berwickshire town become unusable due to flooding caused by a rising water table. Drainage works have been undertaken and the playpark moved to higher ground, however issues continue to persist.
The new project is aiming to design and use nature-based solutions to address these issues, and in doing so also create new wetland and woodland habitats, linking to existing wetland areas to the west of the park, supporting biodiversity.
Councillor Jenny Linehan, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Sustainability and Transport
“The consultation phase of the Duns project is a key opportunity for the public to offer feedback and share their views on the proposals.
"It is hoped that the project will involve the community and local schools to raise awareness of biodiversity and the park's wildlife, and it is also important that they have input at this stage of the project too.
“I would encourage those wishing to have their say to take part in the consultation and help shape this exciting project.”
Have your say
Those wishing to have their say, have until Sunday 19 January 2025 and can do so online.