Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton recently met with Tweed Forum Director, Luke Comins, to discuss the river trust’s exciting new projects, and highlight some of the issues that the River Tweed is facing.
High on the agenda was Destination Tweed; the flagship Borderlands project which aims to celebrate, promote and conserve the natural, built and cultural assets of the River Tweed.
The plan is based around the creation of a 100-mile trail, following the Tweed from source to sea.
Ms Hamilton was also keen to discuss the work Tweed Forum had undertaken to increase Riparian woodland around the river in a bid to boost salmon stocks, alongside their much-praised work on peatland restoration.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
"It was fantastic to meet with Luke and some of the team at Tweed Forum to chat about the work they have undertaken on Destination Tweed
“This is a project I am really keen to get behind as I know it has the potential to bring enormous benefits to the Borders.
“I was also very impressed by the work Tweed Forum have been undertaking on riparian woodland planting and peatland restoration. These are two key areas that Tweed Forum have been working hard to bring about change. This has been incredibly heartening.
“Their work will have a demonstrable impact on the preservation of our environment and natural habitat."
Luke Comins, Director of Tweed Forum, said:
“I was delighted to be able to sit down with Rachael and update her on our work. The projects we have undertaken over the years have enjoyed great support from our Parliamentarians, and I am pleased that we have been able to continue this positive relationship.
“There is a great passion at Tweed Forum for the work we do, and I am pleased that this is being recognised by our elected representatives.
“In our meeting, we were able to discuss the work we have undertaken on Destination Tweed, which forms part of our aim to establish the Tweed as a major tourist attraction whilst enhancing the river environment.
“We also touched upon the need to expand riparian woodland on our riverbanks and the many benefits this brings. This is an issue we are both keen to continue working together on, and I look forward to continuing to work with Rachael on all of the topics we covered.