Forres Waste Water Treatment Works upgrade expected to be complete by autumn

SCOTTISH Water is investing £5.6million in local sewage works.

The project at Forres Waste Water Treatment Works on Invererne Road - started in July 2020 and expected to finish this autumn - involves refurbishing the existing works, including mechanical and electrical equipment at the site being upgraded or replaced to increase capacity.

A Scottish Water spokesperson confirmed a new access road into the site will include construction of a new bridge over the Mosset Burn to remove the requirement for work access through Christie Elite Nurseries via a level crossing on the railway line.

He said: “Work is expected to start on the new permanent access in May but remains subject to continuing engagement with landowners.

“Work is progressing well on site – new de-sludge pumps and associated pipework have been installed, as well as two new sludge storage tanks which will increase storage capacity.

“We have refurbished eight existing biological filter beds, including new penstocks to control the flows, new distribution arms and new control panels. We have also installed new access steelwork to the penstock chambers, and a new motor control centre.

“More than half of the new inlet works, where debris and grit will be screened out of the incoming waste water, has also been completed.”

Forres Waste Water Treatment Works currently serves a population of around 14,500 people.

The upgrade will mean the treatment works is able to continue to meet the needs of the growing community while protecting the environment.

“A number of key assets at the site have been identified for refurbishment or replacement and upgrading,” added the spokesman. “New sludge storage capacity is also being created on the site. Once work is complete the Forres Waste Water Treatment Works will have capacity to serve up to 17,000 people.”