The Project

The Annan Riparian Restoration Project aims to restore riverside habitats along the River Annan - boosting biodiversity, improving water quality, and building climate resilience through natural regeneration and community involvement.

We are the River Annan Trust, a dedicated organisation re-established to lead vital restoration efforts across the River Annan catchment. Operating independently but closely connected to Galloway Rivers Trust (GRT), we work with local communities, landowners, farmers, and investors to enhance biodiversity, resilience, and community wellbeing.

The River Annan catchment area faces significant environmental pressures such as flood risk, erosion, and biodiversity loss due to historical land management practices and climate change. Decades of human intervention have weakened natural resilience, making restoration vital to sustain ecosystems, livelihoods, and communities.

Established a new organisational structure (River Annan Trust).

Developed partnerships with key stakeholders including NatureScot, National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Identified initial project sites and commenced community engagement initiatives.
Produced a detailed project brochure outlining investment opportunities and environmental strategies.

Our goal is to deliver comprehensive restoration across multiple sites within the Annan catchment.

This includes:

  • Implementing natural flood management solutions.
  • Enhancing habitats for improved biodiversity.
  • Creating sustainable community engagement and economic benefits.
  • Developing investment-ready project packages to attract private-sector funding.

 We are utilising a phased approach:

  • Phase 1 (Current): Site selection, detailed planning, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Phase 2: Initial on-the-ground restoration work at priority sites.
  • Phase 3 (Future): Expanded restoration activities, sustained community involvement, and securing long-term investment.

Overall, the project timeline extends over several years, with immediate milestones planned for completion by March 31st.

The project currently receives critical support from:

  • NatureScot & National Lottery Heritage Fund (FERNS grant): Providing initial funding aimed at developing projects attractive to private investors.
  • Galloway Rivers Trust (GRT): Supporting foundational project activities and transition to the River Annan Trust.
  • Lead organisation: River Annan Trust
  • Partners: Galloway Rivers Trust,  NatureScot, National Lottery Heritage Fund.
  • Community & Volunteer Opportunities: Open to local residents, schools, and organisations interested in volunteering, providing feedback, or participating in project planning.

Healthy river systems are essential for community safety, ecological balance, agricultural productivity, and local economic stability.

Our work directly impacts flood risk reduction, biodiversity enhancement, improved soil and water quality, and strengthened community resilience.

  • Environment: Restored habitats, increased biodiversity, better water quality, and climate resilience.
  • Communities: Reduced flood risks, improved recreational opportunities, educational initiatives, and economic opportunities.
  • Landowners & Farmers: Enhanced land resilience, potential income diversification, soil and habitat improvement, and flood mitigation.
  • Investors: Opportunity to invest in impactful, measurable environmental and social outcomes.

Partners & Funders

Learn more about our partners and funders.

Who Can Benefit?

Local Communities

The Annan Riparian Restoration Project is about bringing life back to the River Annan—reviving habitats, reconnecting communities, and creating healthier, more resilient spaces for everyone who calls this landscape home.

Landowners & Farmers

Landowners and farmers are key partners in our conservation and restoration work. By collaborating with us, you directly contribute to a healthier, more resilient environment—benefitting your land, business, and the wider community.

Educational

We're creating opportunities for communities, schools, and volunteers to learn, explore, and play an active role in bringing the River Annan back to life and to reconnect with nature.

Investment Partners

Investing in riparian restoration is a chance to leave a lasting legacy—delivering measurable impacts for biodiversity, climate resilience, and community wellbeing. As a partner, you'll play a vital role in practical, visible environmental change.

Background photo: The Painted Lady is a long-distance migrant, which causes the most spectacular butterfly migrations observed in Britain and Ireland.