The estimated £2.1 million Denburn Restoration project – covering approximately a 1.5 mile stretch from Maidencraig to King’s Gate in the west of the city – would also enhance the wetland habitat and increase biodiversity.

Aberdeen City Council’s Net Zero, Environment and Transport Committee agreed today to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), allowing detailed design work to start.

The Denburn, which flows from Aberdeenshire and ends at the city’s harbour, would be returned to a more natural course, and provide paths linking communities.

The project has so far attracted sizeable backing from SEPA, local transport organisation NESTRANS, and from the Bus Lane Enforcement fund, which can be used to promote sustainable travel.

The committee heard that it is hoped match funding can now be found from other sources along with a maintenance budget.

Aberdeen City Council co-leader, Councillor Ian Yuill, said: “The Denburn Restoration project will provide many benefits, including improving both biodiversity and access to leisure.

“Spending time outdoors can help improve people’s health and wellbeing. This ‘nature positive’ project will make a real difference for people along its route.”

Committee vice-convener Councillor Miranda Radley, added: “It is great to see the funding that has been secured to date for the Denburn restoration project. It will help provide a space for wildlife to flourish whilst reconnecting our communities with nature.”

The restoration fits within Aberdeen Adapts and Climate Adaptation Framework.