Dry spell highlighted need for water work near Evanton
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
LOW rainfall has helped highlight why a new £5.5 million water store under construction in Easter Ross is needed, a Ross-shire MP believes.
Work on the multimillion-pound upgrade of the Easter Ross water network has been underway since February and is expected to be complete in early 2019.
When finished, the new site near Evanton, will be capable of storing up to eight million litres of drinking water and will provide added security of supply for up to 30,000 customers in Easter Ross, Dingwall and the Black Isle.
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP Jamie Stone, who visited the works recently to get an update on progress, was impressed with the project and believes the exceptionally dry start to the summer showed just how precious water is.
"The long period of dry weather this summer is a reminder that, even in the Highlands, water is a precious resource that we all rely on in countless ways," he said.
"The work currently taking place will help to improve the security of water supply for Easter Ross in the event of any future issues at the water treatment works; or disruption to the local water network.
"At the same time, it is good to hear of the work Scottish Water’s operational teams are currently carrying out across the north to maintain supplies and protect the local environment.
"Despite some recent rainfall, it is still important that we use water wisely to help lochs and reservoirs recover so that supplies can be maintained through the rest of the summer and beyond," he added.
The work is being carried out by Scottish Water alliance partner ESD, in partnership with contractor Coffey Construction.
ESD project manager Kevin Williamson said the works remain on track for completion next year.
He said: "The work we are delivering reflects a significant investment for one of the key water supply areas in the Highlands, which serves communities right around the Cromarty Firth.
"Work on site is going well and we anticipate it will be complete early next year.
"Once in place, the new storage tank will give Scottish Water improved ability to carry out important maintenance work at the water treatment works, and deal with any short term issues affecting the local water network, without impact on customers’ water supply."
Meanwhile, Scottish Water has urged customers to do what they can to conserve water following the dry spring and early summer.
Its strategic customer service planning team leader for the north, Jim Briggs, said: "Despite some rainfall... our frontline teams are continuing to work hard to ensure we can maintain supplies to all of our customers. We continue to need customers to help us by using water wisely."
