The Lochee Drainage Strategy sets out the first steps toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient drainage system for the Lochee area. These early phases focus on improving how rainwater is managed, reducing pressure on the combined sewer network, and enabling regeneration across vacant and derelict land along Lochee High Street.
Phase 1 – Bank Street Pocket Park
The strategy begins with the creation of the Bank Street Pocket Park, a small community space designed to improve drainage and enhance the local environment.
Key features include a rain garden to help manage surface water, new seating, and public art. These improvements form the first visible step toward greener, more flood resilient streets.
Phase 2 – Building the Surface Water Network & the Rainwater Square
The second phase introduces major drainage upgrades that prepare Lochee for future development.
A New Surface Water Network
A new “skeleton” surface water drainage system is being installed along Lochee High Street and Bank Street. This network will eventually collect clean rainwater from surrounding redevelopment sites, helping separate surface water from the combined sewer. In the short term, the network temporarily connects back into the existing system until the long-term reinstatement of the Lochee Burn can be delivered.
Aimer Square – The Rainwater Square
At the heart of Phase 2 is the construction of Aimer Square Rainwater Square, an innovative space that combines community use with sustainable drainage.
The Rainwater Square is an offline basin that stores rainwater during heavier storms, helping reduce flood risk and easing pressure on the sewer system. It includes around 230m³ of storage, a controlled inlet system, underground drainage, energy dissipation features, screens to prevent blockages, and safe overflow routes. During dry weather it functions as an attractive public space with seating and greenery.
Phase 3 – Enabling Development
The final early phase supports redevelopment of five Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme (VDLIP) sites around Lochee High Street. These sites will link into the new surface water system, each providing their own onsite rainwater storage and treatment before connecting into the High Street network.
Connections will be created along Bright Street, St Ann Lane, the former Child & Family Centre, and the former Primary School site, ensuring that as these areas are regenerated, they contribute to a cleaner, more resilient drainage system for the whole community.
What This Means for Lochee
Together, these initial phases will:
- Create greener, more welcoming community spaces
- Reduce pressure on the combined sewer and lower flood risk
- Prepare the area for future development and investment
- Begin the long-term transition toward restoring the historic Lochee Burn
These early works lay the foundation for a healthier, more climate ready Lochee – supporting regeneration while managing water sustainably.