Key Capital Project Close to Completion

A £3million project to help prevent wet wipes and other sewer related debris from entering the Water of Leith at Murrayfield in Edinburgh is nearly complete.

Since June, Corstorphine Road has been reduced to one lane while Scottish Water upgrades a key storm overflow, constructing a new spill chamber and screens.

Earlier this month a giant 20 tonne concrete ‘lid’ was lowered into place, marking a major milestone for the project.

Scottish Water Senior Project Manager Ethan Gillies Denning said: “Work has progressed well, despite challenging ground conditions and we are aiming to finish by early December.

“We are extremely grateful to road users and residents who have been patient throughout and have coped well with the disruption on their doorstep.

“We have worked closely with Murrayfield Stadium and Edinburgh City Council to make sure hundreds of thousands of fans have been able to get safely to major events such as the Oasis concerts.

“Similar arrangements are being made so that supporters should have no problems at the autumn rugby internationals that kick off this weekend.

“These projects can be difficult to deliver but once completed, the benefits will ensure the environment is protected for many years to come.”

The project is part of Scottish Water's Improving Urban Waters programme, an additional £500million package of investment to improve the environment and make it more enjoyable for customers to explore their local area.

Working closely with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Scottish Water has identified 108 high-priority storm overflows for improvement or replacement for water quality or aesthetic – sewer related debris – reasons.

Under the banner ‘Draining the Rain, Enhancing the Environment’ the investment helps prevent sewage related debris such as wet wipes from entering the environment during periods of rainfall.

The project is being delivered by Scottish Water’s alliance partner Caledonia Water Alliance (CWA).

Customer Manager Jennifer Renton said: “Work has progressed well despite some challenges along the way, and we sincerely appreciate the public's understanding and patience throughout the process.

“We are proud and grateful to be part of Scottish Water's Improving Urban Waters programme, an important investment in enhancing our environment for future generations.”