SCOTTISH Water is about to start a major project on its waste water infrastructure in the West End of Glasgow to improve the environment and water quality in the River Kelvin.
In the first stage of the project, £2.5million will be invested at three locations — Otago Street/Otago Lane, Westbank Quadrant and near the bandstand in Kelvingrove Park.
Three new combined sewer overflows (CSOs) with screens will be installed to reduce the frequency and volume of waste water spillages in storm conditions, helping improve the river water quality.
At present there is no screening on the three outfalls which spill into the river during stormy weather and Scottish Water and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have identified that work is required to improve the overall environment of the watercourse for aquatic life, flora and fauna.
The River Kelvin at Westbank Quadrant, near Hillhead Primary School
The work, which will be carried out for Scottish Water by amey Black and Veatch (aBV), is due to start in the coming weeks.
Most of it is expected to be completed by spring 2019. However, work in the Westbank 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 this location is scheduled to begin in summer 2020.
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 waste water 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.”
Paul Milligan, regional communications manager for aBV, said: “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.”
Local councillor Martha Wardrop welcomed the start of the project and said: “This investment can provide long-term benefits to the River Kelvin by improving river water quality and promoting our diverse natural environment. It is a vital upgrade of the local waste water management provision to tackle residents’ concerns about pollution of our river.”
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.
