Published Date: Dec 12th, 2023
Today (12 December), the City of Dunfermline Area Committee agreed to fund a preliminary ecological appraisal at Townhill Loch, costing £17,622.
Townhill Loch is one of Dunfermline’s well-used assets, hosting many sporting activities and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. For many years, activity in and around the loch has evolved and a preliminary ecological appraisal is needed to better understand:
- the impact of activities on biodiversity,
- suitable habitat for breeding and wintering birds, as well as any other protected species, and
- the suitability for the loch to support fish, amphibians, and reptiles.
Area Convener, Cllr James Calder welcomed the request and commented: “Before any decisions are taken on Townhill Loch it’s important we have a complete picture of what’s going on in and around the loch, which makes this appraisal vital.”
RSK Biocensus will be carrying out the work and will start this winter. There will be no disruption to loch users whilst the appraisal is carried out. A report on the findings will come back to committee next year.