Share

Community crew get wet and wild as they tackle River Don raft run

An intrepid crew of volunteers are set to take part in a raft run to gain a unique perspective of Aberdeen’s Donside.

Aberdeen City Council’s outdoor experts Adventure Aberdeen will tackle the waters of the River Don for the first time with willing volunteers from the Sustainable Urban Fringe (SURF) Aberdeen project and Tenant’s First tomorrow (Wednesday).

Aberdeen City Council is the lead partner in the Sustainable Urban Fringes (SURF) Aberdeen Project, which focuses on improving the quality of life of communities along Donside through environmental improvement.

Working with Adventure Aberdeen and Tenants First the group has focused on bringing together communities and organisations to improve decision making locally, beginning with greater understanding of the River Don.

It is hoped the raft adventure will help inform the crew of the work they do with local communities and better understand the area from the water rather than the paths surrounding it.

The thrill seekers will launch their raft near Persley Bridge at 12:30pm, making their way along the River Don’s twists, turns, rises and falls before their journey culminates at the Donmouth - assuming they stay dry and make it that far!

Stephen Bly, SURF Aberdeen Project Officer, said: “This is a one off opportunity for us to see the Don and all it has to offer from the river itself; to experience the sights and sounds away from the river bank and to gain a greater understanding of the issues surrounding the natural environment and recreation on the river.

“This in turn should really help us to deliver a better project and better outcomes for the local communities. We’d also love it if people came out to give us a cheer!”

Katherine Maclean, Community Development Officer at Tenants First’s Donside Urban Village, says “It’s been a really positive experience working with the SURF Aberdeen project and the people they’ve brought together. The whole experience has brought new connections and understandings that have allowed us to better appreciate the area and the communities we are working with.

“Wednesday’s Adventure will only strengthen that… hopefully we’ll get a wave as we go past the new site – and not the wet kind!”

82 views