Scottish Water is planning to start construction of the new £21 million Tullich Water Treatment Works (WTW) in early 2016, with the aim of having it fully operational and into supply by Autumn 2017.

Jim Tudhope, Scottish Water’s Project Manager, said:

“This is a major investment in our water infrastructure in the Oban area which will safeguard a robust and resilient water supply for many years to come.”

Once it is operational, the new works will ensure thousands of customers receive clear, fresh drinking water that meets the most stringent quality standards and will accommodate planned growth in the catchment area. Ruaridh MacGregor, Scottish Water’s Regional Community Manager for the area said the location of the new WTW will mean minimal impact to residents.

The existing treatment works is located a kilometre south of Oban on the A816 and has been in operation since 1976. The location of the new works will be on land adjacent to the existing works. Once fully operational, the existing works will be demolished.

The new WTW will incorporate three major levels of water treatment, including dissolved air flotation (DAF), rapid gravity filtration and secondary filtration, meeting the most rigorous standards set out by the Drinking Water Quality Regulator (DWQR).

The successful tender based on best value to the public purse was submitted by Efficient Service Delivery (ESD), who has now been appointed as Scottish Water’s delivery partner for the project.

Tony Collins, ESD’s Chief Operating Officer, said:

“ESD is delighted to have been selected to deliver the new works at Tullich. We are well advanced with the design and will be making the most of our off-site fabrication capabilities to pre-assemble and test plant and equipment in the factory, ready for delivery to site in modules. This will speed up our installation and deliver a high quality treatment works for Scottish Water and its customers.”

The project represents the latest major investment in the water and waste water infrastructure in the area since Scottish Water was formed in 2002.