Otters, geese, swans and dragonflies can rest easy in Crossmichael after Scottish Water consulted with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) to ensure a £1.8m project to upgrade the waste water provision in the village does not impact on local wildlife and provides a cleaner, fresher environment by reducing odours and maintaining water quality.

For project managers Scottish Water Solutions, there has been a great deal of environmental and wildlife considerations prior to the construction process. The works lie within an area designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA), Ramsar site and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Construction is deliberately taking place in winter when birds have migrated and a survey by SNH confirmed otters will not have their habitat affected by the work.

The project team are also aware of special protection areas for species such as Greenland Whitefronted Goose and the Greylag Goose. Dragonfly assemblages and Whooper Swans also reside nearby.

The investment will replace the current septic tank with two new tanks which have a total capacity of 180 cubic metres. The tanks will also have additional capacity to provide waste water treatment for any new developments underway in Crossmichael, whilst protecting the natural environment in the River Dee and Loch Ken.

Local councillor gives project seal of approval

Peter Duncan, local councillor, said: “This upgrade has been long awaited and I welcome the investment by Scottish Water. I hope that real progress will now be made towards the twin objectives of cleaner water in the Ken and River Dee, as well as increasing the capacity of the old system.”

The community have been kept informed in the design stages of this project and will continue to be updated as the construction progresses. Newsletters and an information day enabled the community to view plans and raise any queries with the project team.

Environment will be protected as work takes place

All vegetation clearance works have been scheduled to avoid the bird breeding season between February and August. The area has been landscaped to protect against flooding and new hedges and native wild grass will be planted so the site blends in with the local environment.

Nathan Horsman, project manager, Scottish Water Solutions, said: “The new works will be a vast improvement to the old tank, which required constant maintenance. The concrete tanks will be sealed underground and will only require de-sludging approximately twice per year.

“Consultation was carried out with a number of bodies, including Scottish Power who operate Loch Ken. The site has been designed minimise the risk of flooding when the loch and river level rises”.

Regional manager, Rob Mustard, said: “In October 2008 we held an information event in the village hall to give local residents a further opportunity to view plans and ask questions. This was well attended and we will continue to keep residents informed throughout this project.

“This programme of work will enable our facility at Crossmichael to meet stringent environmental regulations and will protect the water quality in Loch Ken and River Dee - a key recreational spot that generates considerable support for the local economy.”

Scottish Water’s 2010 vision for Dumfries & Galloway is an extensive investment programme that is bringing clearer, fresher drinking water to the region while facilitating growth and protecting the natural environment. Scottish Water will invest £50million in Dumfries & Galloway between 2006-2010. For more information visit the dedicated web pages at www.scottishwater.co.uk/dumfriesandgalloway2010.