Scottish Water explores possibility of using Loch Ness to supply water to Inverness
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LOCH Ness could be used to supply water to Inverness during drier summers, Scottish Water has revealed.
The utilities firm has drawn up plans to develop a pumping station south-west of Dores and build a partially buried water tank at Inverness Water Treatment Works in which to store the water.
The move comes amid increasing concerns over man-made climate change, and will also help the system cope with rising demand caused by a booming housing market in the Highland capital.
The water in Inverness taps is currently supplied by Loch Ashie and Loch Duntelchaig in the hills on the south side of Loch Ness.
Plans for the new infrastructure will go on show at a public consultation event in Dores next week.
“This is a significant potential project, which we need to consider carefully to ensure we select the best option to meet the long-term needs of our customers,” said Scottish Water corporate affairs manager, Gavin Steel.
“We also want to ensure the potential impacts of construction work on local residents and businesses are well managed so that any work leaves a positive legacy for the area.
“We would encourage anyone with an interest in our plans to come along to meet our team and find out more – as well as to provide comments before we finalise our planning applications.”
The new scheme has been developed by Scottish Water with its alliance partner Caledonia Water Alliance (CWA).
They believe it will improve the resilience of the water supply for Inverness, Nairn and surrounding areas while continuing to support population growth.
The event is open to all and will take place at Dores Village Hall on Monday, December 2 from 4pm to 7.30pm.
A decision on the project and its timing will be taken next year.
