ABPmer awarded RSPB Skinflats Managed Realignment

ABPmer, a leading authority in coastal adaptation, has been commissioned by RSPB Scotland to provide the technical design and associated Environmental Statement for a proposed managed realignment at their Skinflats Reserve on the Firth of Forth.

In 2001 RSPB purchased the 10 ha Bothkennar Field on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth near the Kincardine Bridge. RSPB Scotland’s long term aspirations for the site are to connect it to the Forth and create more inter-tidal habitat to offset some of the losses that have occurred as a result of land claim and to provide safe high tide roost areas for birds. Currently a Regulated Tidal Exchange (RTE) is in operation but does not function as required.

Earlier in 2017, ABPmer carried out a feasibility study that considered the potential impacts of removing the RTE and creating a managed realignment.

Susi Armstrong, a managed realignment specialist at ABPmer said: “We are really pleased to be asked to support RSPB Scotland in taking this project forward.

“Working with Arup who will provide design and engineering advice, we will now undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment, including Habitat Regulations and Water Framework Directive assessments. We are also providing RSPB Scotland with other planning and licensing support, including attendance at a public exhibition, preparing the design and access plans as well as public consultation reports.”

The inter-tidal habitats of the Inner Forth are spectacular places for nature, recognised both by national and international designations. These habitats, however, are under pressure. In response RSPB Scotland established the Inner Forth Futurescape, a landscape-scale conservation project that aims to restore and create new inter-tidal habitat across the Inner Forth in partnership with others. RSPB Skinflats is a key site in this project as it provides the opportunity to deliver new inter-tidal habitat, whilst also demonstrating the effectiveness of managed realignment.

This project is being realised with monies from the Heritage Lottery Fund and through European LIFE+ funding.

Learn more about ABPmer’s habitat creation and restoration services at www.abpmer.co.uk/services/habitat-creation-restoration