The future management of Perth’s medieval watercourse which fed the water mills will be discussed by councillors.
The council’s proposed approach to managing and maintaining the lade for the next 20 years will be considered in a report to the environment committee.
The lade, which dates to the 12th century, has a significant place in the history and geography of Perth. The council, which owns a substantial part of the watercourse, has been working to help protect and maintain the lade.
The draft management plan going before councillors sets out comprehensively for the first time what support is provided by council services, as well as details of the maintenance that has been carried out and the rich biodiversity of the lade which includes rare and threatened plants, birds and animals including sand martins, newts and several species of bats.
Community feedback to previous consultation about the lade is also included in the report, with the majority of residents’ responses favouring steps to ensure the watercourse and its surrounding area are kept clean and tidy and the route alongside made safe and welcoming to use.
If agreed, the draft plan will then go out for public consultation.