Construction has commenced on the £27 million flood protection scheme in Comrie, aimed at protecting nearly 200 homes from the threat of flooding.

The project, being carried out by Balfour Beatty, is expected to be completed by Autumn 2026.

The scheme will provide flood defences along the Water of Ruchill, River Earn, and River Lednock, all areas historically prone to flooding. The defences will include flood walls and embankments, incorporating natural flood management techniques such as root wad revetment bank protection measures. These measures are designed to provide protection against a 1 in 200-year magnitude flood event.

Comrie has experienced significant flooding in recent years, including events in January 1993, February 1997, December 2006, and August and November 2012. Previous flood protection works by Perth and Kinross Council in 2013 mitigated flood risks in the Dalginross area, but residual risks from the River Earn and River Lednock remained. The detailed design for the current scheme, addressing these risks, was completed in 2023.

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Led by principal designer Sweco, the project will enhance flood resilience for the Comrie community through improved flood defence levels. The scheme will also feature a high-level finish, using locally sourced natural stone materials and high-quality landscaping, including compensatory tree planting, with three trees planted for every one removed during construction.

The project is funded through an 80/20 split, with the Scottish Government providing 80% of the costs and Perth and Kinross Council contributing the remaining 20%.

Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth and Kinross Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said: "It is fantastic to see construction underway on this vital flood protection scheme in Comrie. Flooding is sadly becoming a more frequent occurrence due to climate change, so this scheme is hugely important for residents and businesses in the area."

Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Grant Laing stated: "As a Council we are committed to working with our communities and this will make a real difference to the lives of people who live and work in Comrie."

Keith MacDonald, Portfolio Director at Balfour Beatty, said: "We are delighted to have commenced construction on the Comrie Flood Protection Scheme, helping to safeguard hundreds of homes and businesses from the risk of flooding. Our focus remains on carrying out the works safely and sustainably, using innovative natural flood management techniques to enhance resilience while minimising environmental impact."