East Ayrshire scheme could restore habitat for salmon

Aug 15 2008

SALMON could return to a village burn if an environmental plan is successful.

East Ayrshire Council revealed this week that Taiglum Burn will be given a new lease of life thanks to the ambitious project.

The burn runs through the heart of Drongan and is connected to the River Ayr via the Coyle Water tributary.

Council leader Douglas Reid and councillors Elaine Dinwoodie, Drew Filson and Jim Sutherland met with Bill Gibson and John Nimmo from Drongan Tenants and Residents Association to discuss the plan.

Councillor Reid explained: “The council is committed to helping the community revitalise the burn, and I was pleased to meet with the local members for the area and Bill and John to talk through the plans and their hopes for the burn.

“The main objectives of the initiative are to develop a phased bio-diversity and environmental renewal scheme aimed at improving the burn for educational and recreational purposes and to re-introduce indigenous flora and fauna to the area.”

He added: “They also hope to take measures to improve drainage and flood prevention along the burn, and develop plans that will include habitat restoration and improved spawning grounds for salmon that used to reach the Taiglum Burn prior to it being blocked and its flow restricted.”

Residents are now working with the council to secure funding.

Councillor Reid went on: “The council will continue to support the initiative.”