A section of the Clyde Walkway that collapsed into the river due to erosion has been replaced by a new path at RSPB Scotland Baron’s Haugh.

The new path, which has been funded by the Land Trust and the Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership, runs for half a kilometre and provides an alternative route for visitors exploring the Motherwell nature reserve.

Gerry McAuley, RSPB Scotland Area Reserve Manager, said: “Baron’s Haugh is extremely popular with walkers and nature lovers, and we’re keen to make it as accessible to the public as possible. There’s been an on-going issue with erosion of the riverbank and the Clyde Walkway, and while we’ve been able to put in place minor diversions so far, a bit of the original path has now entirely disappeared into the river.

“The Clyde is a dynamic watercourse, and the number of flood events we’ve experienced has increased in recent years. It seems sensible to assume that this will continue into the future, and after looking at a number of options, we’ve decided to move the path further away from that part of the river, allowing the natural process of erosion to continue.

“The new route links up with the existing path network, and provides a walkway leading through the reserve’s parkland.”

The new path is part of a number of improvements that are taking place at Baron’s Haugh this autumn, including habitat work that will help to make the site a better home for nature, as well as providing good wildlife viewing opportunities for visitors.

The last couple of months have already seen some fantastic sightings at the reserve, with wading birds such as black-tailed godwits, little stint, ruff and green sandpipers arriving to feed on the haugh’s mudflats.

Warden Mark Mitchell will also be continuing to run regular events this autumn, with  Winter Arrivals on November 6. Details of events can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/baronshaugh or by emailing baronshaugh@rspb.org.uk.

For further information and to arrange an interview, please contact:

Jenny Tweedie, RSPB Scotland Media and Communications Officer, on 0141 331 0993, or 07899 675131.