Scottish Water has started the work at the Philipshill waste water treatment plant in East Kilbride.

The upgrade will also provide continued compliance with EU regulations for urban waste water treatment.

Linda Fabiani, MSP for East Kilbride, visited the site to be given a briefing on the work.

Ms Fabiani said: "This is the type of facility which we all take very much for granted, so to get some idea of how it works was really useful.

"As our town grows in population it's important that we have upgraded treatment facilities for waste water whilst protecting our environment."

Across Lanarkshire, 24 waste water treatment works are being upgraded in one of the biggest programmes of its kind ever seen in Scotland.

The work will yield particular benefit for the River Clyde and many of its associated watercourses, ensuring that wildlife of all kinds in and around the many rivers and tributaries remains protected now and in the future.

Some of the works are being enhanced so that in the future they can accept and process more waste water.

Gavin Noble, the Philipshill project manager, said: "The works serves around 65,000 people and the upkeep of these facilities is essential so major towns and economic centres like East Kilbride can continue to grow and thrive.

"The project follows on from a major investment of £10m a few years ago to transfer all the treated flows from Philipshill to the Allers waste water treatment works which is on the banks of the Clyde.

South Lanarkshire Council's Provost, Russell Clearie, said: "Scotland has always been famous for its clear, sparkling water and its rivers and lochs have been immortalised in song, verse and painting.

"This major investment from Scottish Water carried out to improve treatment of waste water will ensure the future integrity of both our rivers and the wider environment."

stef.lach@ heraldandtimes.co.uk

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