Ecological study of wildlife and biodiversity at Townhill

The preliminary ecological appraisal (PEA) will start this winter and be carried out by a firm called RSK Biocensus.

The funding was approved at the City of Dunfermline area committee and a report explained: "Townhill Loch is a well-used and respected asset to Dunfermline, hosting a variety of sporting activities and wildlife.

"Over an extended period, activity in and around the loch has evolved and expanded, meaning the loch and surrounding areas are being used in different ways.

"A PEA is required to better understand the impact of activities on biodiversity, determine suitable habitat for breeding and wintering birds, as well as any other protected species, and the suitability for the loch to support fish, amphibians and reptiles."

Waterski & Wakeboard Scotland, who are based at the loch, and Townhill Community Council were consulted about the study. (Image: David Wardle)

There will be no disruption to loch users whilst the appraisal is carried out and a report on the findings will come back to committee next year.

Dunfermline North councillor Gavin Ellis said: "It's located in Townhill but this is Dunfermline's Meedies we're talking about.

"It's plain to see we've lost some wildlife there but the report doesn't show us the damage that's being done under the water, to the amphibians as well.

"I think it's important we fully understand what's going on with the activities up there."

In the past there have been problems with rats at the loch and also concern about the impact of the new Northern Link Road, which is set to be built next to the eastern bank. 

Fellow ward councillor, Gordon Pryde, said: "I go there regularly for a walk and in winter you can see the bullfinches, which are a fantastic sight.

"The grebes are a case in point of why we need this report.

A pair of great crested grebes nested at Townhill Loch in the summer of 2022 but, sadly, their chicks didn't survive. Cllr Gordon Pryde said the study may provide some answers. (Image: Arthur Allan)"Back in 2022 we had some nesting grebes on the loch. These are birds that have had a difficult past.

"In the 19th century they were almost hunted to extinction in the UK as their plumage was sought after by milliners as apparently they were used in lady's hats.

"Last year the chicks didn't survive to adulthood. That's disappointing and we don't know why that is.

"This report should give us an indication if there are particular activities on the loch that resulted in that."

Committee convener, Cllr James Calder, said: “Before any decisions are taken on Townhill Loch it’s important we have a complete picture of what’s going on in and around it, which makes this appraisal vital.”