WATER OF LEITH FLOOD PREVENTION SCHEME

Protecting hundreds of properties in Water of Leith from future flooding

The area had been severely flooded several times, causing substantial damage, particularly in the area around Murrayfield and the Scottish International Rugby Stadium.

The flood protection scheme provides flood defences for more than 400 homes and several commercial properties.

The project included the design and construction of flood defences along the Water of Leith at Murrayfield, covering 1.2 km and providing a one-in-200-year standard of protection.

Works also included top-of-bank, reinforced concrete piled retaining walls, incorporating embedded steel sheet pile foundations that further reduce flood risk by controlling seepage during long-duration storm events.

Enhancing the river flow regime through the demolition of four bridges across the river, their replacement with two new road bridges, and the provision of an overflow channel to provide additional storage capacity.

The scheme also aimed to improve the quality of life for residents affected by flooding by providing enhanced access to the riverside walkway, disability access, and improvements to the area’s environmental and amenity aspects.

Phase 2 of the Water of Leith Flood Prevention Scheme was successfully delivered below budget and five months ahead of schedule.