A former Falkirk landfill that was transformed into a ‘booming’ ecological site has won the 2023 Brownfield Award for Best Biodiversity Enhancement.
Kinneil Kerse, which was used as a landfill from the 1920s until 2000, was transformed in a £2.6 million project led by Falkirk Council alongside WSP Consultants, SEPA, and the British Trust for Ornithology.
The local authority explained that the site posed various environmental risks, including pollution and potential harm to nearby water sources. Since restoration began, the area has transformed from an environmental risk into a valuable green space that offsets over 4.4 tonnes of carbon each year.
Presented earlier this month in Manchester, the award recognised the commitment to converting a 375-acre former landfill into a ‘booming’ ecological site that supports biodiversity along the Firth of Forth.
Accepting the award on behalf of Falkirk Council, waste services coordinator John Kirkhope said, “Working on the Kinneil Kerse landfill restoration has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and winning the award is a testament to the team’s dedication.
“Restoring Kinneil Kerse into a thriving habitat not only reflects our commitment to environmental sustainability, but also showcases how collaborative efforts can transform landscapes for future generations. It’s an honour to be recognised for turning an old landfill area into a vibrant ecosystem that supports biodiversity.”
Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, leader of Falkirk Council, added, “The transformation at Kinneil Kerse is a strong example of effective environmental restoration, enhancing habitats and creating new opportunities for biodiversity to flourish. The team’s dedicated work and careful approach have safeguarded vital habitats for wildlife, while creating a greener legacy for future generations.”
