The scheme is designed to protect vulnerable residents and businesses from the threat of flooding. Attention was brought to the subject after severe flooding from the Water of Leith in 2000 affected more than 500 properties in Edinburgh.  

Russell said that: "The Scottish Government recognises that the development of major flood prevention schemes, such as this £30m scheme for the Water of Leith, takes far too long.  We are introducing a Flooding Bill next year to modernise the statutory process and consultation on this bill is due to start in the New Year.   

"In the meantime, we are pleased to provide £4.4m to the City of Edinburgh Council towards the development costs incurred from 2000 to the end of this financial year. This scheme is vital to protect vulnerable residents of Edinburgh from the risk of flooding from the Water of Leith.  

"As shown by the floods of 2000, flooding can pose a real threat for residents and businesses along the Water of Leith and I hope this progress will help provide some reassurance for those affected and living in close proximity to the river. Climate change has seen flooding become an increasingly regular threat to communities around Scotland and the rest of the UK, and the Scottish Government is committed to helping local authorities tackling this growing danger." 

Councillor Phil Wheeler, Transport Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: "Flooding is a real threat which costs great anxiety for thousands of residents and business owners in Edinburgh who want peace of mind that their homes and premises are protected.  

"This announcement is great news and my Committee will be giving urgent consideration to funding the Council's contribution for implementing this much needed scheme."