River Ness Flood Alleviation Scheme receives national award

The River Ness Flood Alleviation Scheme has received a commendation at a national engineering award ceremony.

The scheme received the award in the ‘Project’ category at the recent Saltire Society Civil Engineering Awards in Edinburgh. The awards recognise excellence in engineering, design and innovation in Scotland.

The scheme protects 800 homes and 200 businesses in Inverness city centre from flooding, but also features a public arts programme to compliment the centre’s streetscape enhancements. Phase two of the project was completed in September 2015.

Another Highland entry, the berth improvements at Ullapool Harbour was among the four projects that received a commendation.

The overall winner at the awards was Edinburgh’s Haymarket Station, which recently underwent a £25 million redevelopment.

Principal Engineer of the Flood Risk Management Team Matthew Smith attended the awards. He said: “The flood defences are a fantastic asset to the city that will reduce the risk of flooding and the impact of climate change long into the future.

“I think the judges recognised that this project has transformed the city’s riverside. The streetscape works have improved the look and feel of the area adjacent to the river and will be enjoyed for generations to come.

“There are so many people involved in developing a scheme like this, who have all worked very hard. This is a great accolade for everyone involved”.

Chair of the Council’s Planning, Development and Infrastructure Committee Councillor Audrey Sinclair said: “This commendation is national recognition of the talent that we have in our Planning, Development and Infrastructure teams.

“I would like to thank everyone involved for all their hard work and vision in completing what is now an award winning project”.

Provost of Inverness Councillor Helen Carmichael said: “The River Ness Flood Alleviation Scheme will improve the lives of residents and visitors to the city for years to come.

“While it serves a practical purpose, it has improved the appearance of an already attractive area. I am delighted that such an ambitious Highland project has been recognised at a national level.”