A project has been launched to improve bathing water at Portobello and Fisherrow, after both areas received poor bathing water classifications from SEPA this year.

Scottish Water will begin investigations into improvement options next week, 06 August.

An eight-strong team of specialist engineers will carry out tests and investigations in the area, as well as ground investigation works including drilling boreholes into the sea bed.

A floating 215-tonne platform will be on the Firth of Forth approximately one kilometre from the Portobello shoreline for the five-week long works.

Mark Dickson, Director of Capital Investment at Scottish Water, said: "Scottish Water is committed to helping improve the bathing water quality at Portobello and Fisherrow. This essential site investigation work will help us determine the best option to do this.

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"We appreciate Portobello Beach is a hugely popular area, especially during the summer months. This work is being carried out at this time as the sea condition is likely to be the most favourable for the essential tests we need to carry out ahead of any investment.

"Throughout the project to improve bathing water at these popular beaches we will work closely alongside a range of organisations, including SEPA and local authorities.

"We will ensure people in the area, including residents, businesses and visitors, are kept fully informed and updated on work we are due to carry out."

The investigation work has been welcomed by environment groups and local councils.

Terry A'Hearn, Chief Executive of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: "Every day SEPA works to protect and enhance Scotland's stunning environment and we are committed to ensuring all of Scotland's designated bathing waters meet water quality standards.

"Working with partners, we're continuing our focus on bathing waters rated as 'poor', or at risk of poor water quality events. This project is an important first step to understanding the plans for securing major improvements to bathing water quality in the future at both Portobello bathing waters and also Fisherrow Sands."

In-depth analysis of the investigation work will take place following its completion. A contractor will then be found to deliver the project.

(CM)