Urban Rewilding in North Edinburgh
Explore the self-willed wetland at Western Harbour Ponds, discover its wildlife and find out about the campaign to save it.
About Our Cause
At the eastern tip of Western Harbour, North Edinburgh, lie four undeveloped plots on the shores of the Forth and Port of Leith dock. After the 2008 financial crash, half-dug building foundations were abandoned and the site has remained untouched since.
Today, remarkably, Mother Nature has reclaimed the land, forming wetlands and ponds on two plots, and woodland on the third and fourth. It has evolved into a wonderful example of urban rewilding - a haven for native plantlife, insects, bats and waterfowl, including breeding swans and moorhens. It has also become a very special place for local residents and birdwatchers, who come to reconnect with nature, watch the wildlife and enjoy the tranquillity of this ad-hoc blue-green space in an otherwise densely developed part of the city.
However, the Ponds are now threatened with destruction. In November 2022, the plots were put up for sale for development by the private landowner - a company based in the British Virgin Islands. In autumn 2023, a prospective buyer started the process of applying for planning permission to build.
Development would be a massive loss for the local community and for urban wildlife. As a community group, we are campaigning to secure the future of the Western Harbour Ponds as a precious green-blue space.... for nature, for people and for climate.
Under threat
What is Urban Rewilding?
Urban rewilding in Scotland encompasses efforts to restore and enhance natural habitats and biodiversity within urban areas across the country. While specific initiatives may vary depending on the location and context, the overarching goal is to create healthier, more resilient, and biodiverse cities and towns that benefit both people and wildlife.
Key aspects of urban rewilding in Scotland may include:
Green Space Creation: Establishing and expanding green spaces, parks, and urban forests to provide habitat for wildlife, improve air quality, and enhance the overall quality of life for urban residents.
Native Planting: Planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers to support local biodiversity and create wildlife-friendly habitats within urban landscapes.
Habitat Restoration: Restoring degraded urban ecosystems, such as wetlands, woodlands, and meadows, to their natural state to support native flora and fauna.
Green Infrastructure: Integrating green infrastructure elements, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and green walls, into urban design and development to manage stormwater, reduce urban heat island effects, and provide habitat for wildlife.
Wildlife Corridors: Establishing wildlife corridors and green corridors to connect fragmented habitats and allow for the movement of animals within urban areas.
Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in rewilding efforts through education, outreach, and participatory projects to foster a sense of stewardship and connection to nature.
Biodiversity Monitoring: Monitoring and documenting urban biodiversity to assess the effectiveness of rewilding efforts and guide future conservation actions.
Urban rewilding initiatives in Scotland often involve partnerships between local government, conservation organisations, community groups, and volunteers. These collaborative efforts aim to promote the coexistence of nature and urban life, creating more sustainable and resilient cities for present and future generations.
Benefits of Urban Rewilding
Urban rewilding offers a range of benefits for both the environment and human well-being. Here are some key advantages:
Biodiversity Conservation: Urban rewilding creates habitats that support a diverse range of plants, insects, birds, and other wildlife. This helps to conserve biodiversity and promotes the survival of native species, some of which may be endangered or threatened.
Improved Air Quality: Increasing green spaces in urban areas through rewilding can help improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen. Trees and vegetation act as natural filters, capturing dust, smoke, and other harmful particles, thereby contributing to cleaner air for residents.
Climate Change Mitigation: Urban rewilding plays a role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, storing carbon in their biomass and in the soil. This helps to offset carbon emissions from human activities and contributes to efforts to combat climate change.
Enhanced Urban Microclimate: Vegetation in urban areas helps to regulate temperature by providing shade and reducing the urban heat island effect. Green spaces absorb less heat than concrete and asphalt, helping to cool down urban environments during hot weather and creating more comfortable outdoor spaces for residents.
Flood Prevention and Water Management: Rewilding projects often involve the restoration of wetlands, riverbanks, and other natural water features, which can help to absorb excess rainfall and reduce the risk of flooding. By restoring natural drainage systems, urban rewilding projects contribute to more effective water management and resilience to extreme weather events.
Increased Access to Nature: Introducing green spaces and natural areas into urban environments provides residents with opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and physical activity. Access to nature has been shown to improve mental health and well-being, reduce stress, and promote a sense of connection to the natural world.
Community Engagement and Education: Urban rewilding projects can engage communities in environmental stewardship and conservation efforts. Involving local residents in the planning and implementation of rewilding initiatives can foster a sense of ownership and pride in green spaces, while also providing opportunities for education and learning about local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Economic Benefits: Green infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and urban forests, can increase property values and attract investment to urban areas. Additionally, rewilding projects that incorporate sustainable landscaping practices can reduce maintenance costs over time and create jobs in fields such as landscaping, conservation, and eco-tourism.
Overall, urban rewilding offers a holistic approach to urban planning that prioritises the health and well-being of both people and the planet.