A significant peatland restoration project spanning over 500 hectares around Afton Reservoir near New Cumnock has been completed ahead of schedule, marking a key step in protecting water quality and reducing carbon emissions in the face of climate change.

This initiative, one of Scottish Water's largest peatland restoration schemes to date, saw contractor George Leslie make swift progress, allowing work to conclude before the planned pause for the bird nesting season later in the year.

The project focused on returning the degraded land to a more natural state by closing up numerous drainage channels using a technique known as "zippering." This method helps the land retain water, fostering healthy peatland ecosystems and preventing erosion, which in turn improves the quality of water flowing into the reservoir.

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Alan MacDonald, Scottish Water's project manager, expressed his satisfaction: "We're delighted that this project has been completed ahead of schedule, thanks to the hard work carried out by the George Leslie team." He added that the scheme's primary goal is to "protect the quality of the source water in Afton Reservoir, by restoring the peat so that it is better able to hold water in the land and reduce the amount of organic matter that is washed into the loch. This makes the job of treating it less time consuming and costly."

MacDonald further emphasised the broader environmental benefits: "Peatland restoration is a key element of Scottish Water's net zero journey as it locks up carbon, supports biodiversity and helps towards the Scottish Government's targets for peatland restoration in Scotland. They are also vital in making our water sources more resilient to future climate change."

Craig MacDonald, agent with delivery partner George Leslie, also commented on the project's efficiency: "To have completed the 500-hectare restoration ahead of schedule is testament to the resourcefulness of all the delivery team. Bringing our experience in peatland restoration will continue on other Scottish Water projects – building on our reputation in this important area to help Scottish Water and Scotland reach its net zero targets."

Afton Reservoir, located six miles south of New Cumnock, receives water from a sizeable catchment area encompassing surrounding hills. The treated water from the Afton treatment works then supplies much of Ayrshire.