Scottish Water is embarking on a major project on its wastewater infrastructure in the West End of Glasgow to improve the environment and water quality in the River Kelvin.
Three new combined sewer overflows (CSOs) with screens will reduce the frequency and volume of wastewater spillages in storm conditions.
Scottish Water and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said they have identified work is required to improve the overall environment of the watercourse for aquatic life, flora and fauna.
The project forms part of Scottish Water’s £250 million, five-year programme of work to improve river water quality and the natural environment across the Greater Glasgow area.
The work for the first stage is due to start in the coming weeks and will be carried out for Scottish Water by alliance partners amey Black and Veatch (aBV).
Ruaridh MacGregor, Scottish Water’s corporate affairs manager, said: “Scottish Water is delighted to be starting this key project which will benefit the natural environment in these parts of the West End of Glasgow for many years to come.
“The investment, which is part of our ongoing improvements to the Greater Glasgow area’s wastewater infrastructure, has been carefully planned, in liaison with all stakeholders, and we will do everything possible to minimise any disruption during our work.
“After engaging with the River Kelvin Angling Association during the early stages of planning for the project, we listened to their views and confirmed that we would relocate one of the overflow pipes further downstream.
“This work aligns closely with our future ambitions on delivering reliable, resilient and sustainable water and waste water services which are the cornerstones of our ongoing Shaping the Future consultation.”
Paul Milligan, regional communications manager for aBV, added: “As this work is close to Hillhead Primary School, aBV and Scottish Water have been liaising with the school and Glasgow City Council, keeping them and local businesses updated on our plans. The work at the school will be carried out during the school summer holidays to minimise any inconvenience to the school, its staff, pupils and parents.”
Most of the work is expected to be completed by spring 2019, while work in the Quadrant area will be carried out over a period of six weeks this summer, another six-week period in summer next year and the final work at the location is scheduled to begin in summer 2020.
Scottish Water said discussions are ongoing to determine what further improvement work is required for the second stage of the project, which will involve similar investment in other parts of the West End.
The nationwide Shaping the Future consultation seeks views of communities throughout Scotland to help shape water and wastewater services.