Scottish Water is set to commence work on a project that will help protect the natural environment of Castle Semple Loch in Renfrewshire. Castle Semple Loch is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and has facilities such as a water sports centre and an RSPB bird reserve.

It is understood almost £250,000 will be spent on improvements to the Lochwinnoch Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTW) which will not only help to protect and improve the waters in the loch, but will also reduce the risk of external flooding near the WWTW. In addition, the investment will improve the screening of the waste water storm discharge from the WWTW and reduce pressure on the local waste water system, subsequently reducing the risk of manholes being discharged in streets and gardens nearby.

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The work will be carried out by contractors Ross-shire Engineering, with the project starting on 19 June. Subject to weather conditions, it has been given a scheduled completion date of the end of August.

The investment will involve:

• Modifications to the storm chamber used for storing waste water in storm conditions

• The installation of a new storm screen

• The replacement or refurbishment of other equipment and valves in the system.

Gary Caig, Scottish Water's Waste Water Assets Manager, said: "Scottish Water is very pleased to be starting this major investment in the Lochwinnoch WWTW, which is a key facility in our waste water infrastructure in Renfrewshire.

"It plays a very important role in providing waste water services to customers across a wide area and this investment will ensure that it continues to provide a first-class service for many years to come.

"In helping to protect the natural environment in and around Castle Semple Loch, our investment will benefit local wildlife, flora and fauna and local residents and visitors to the area."

(JP/MH)