Management plan for river gets backing

A NEW management plan for the Water of Leith has been finalised.

The plan was approved by members of the city's planning committee in May in draft form ahead of a consultation with the local community.

During the consultation, the city council received 18 responses indicating "general support" for the aims of the plan, as well as some suggestions for changes.

The main issues raised during the consultation included signage, control of invasive species, grounds maintenance, path quality and active travel.

The plan is now to be implemented by the Water of Leith Action Group from the autumn, with a review to take place on an annual basis.

Dave Anderson, director of the council's city development department, said: "There is wide support for the introduction of the management plan, the consensus being that it will encourage a more collaborative and systematic approach to the management of the river."

Topics considered in the plan include management, biodiversity, fisheries, archaeology, cultural and built heritage, recreation and access, and education and interpretation.