Scottish Water has unveiled plans for a £1.7 million project to help prevent rags, wet wipes and other sewer related debris from entering an Edinburgh watercourse.

Working closely with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Scottish Water has identified priority storm overflows for improvement or replacement for water quality or aesthetic – sewer related debris – reasons.

The existing outfall is located under Corstorphine Road in the shadow of Murrayfield Stadium.

The unscreened storm overflow running into the Water of Leith under Corstorphine Road at Ormidale Terrace will be upgraded to include new spill chambers and screens. The existing spill pipe and outfall will be retained.

When excess rainwater is discharged, the new screens will ensure any sewer related debris related debris is prevented from entering the Water of Leith.

The work is due to get underway in June this year and will take approximately seven months to complete.

Scottish Water Senior Project Manager Ethan Gillies Denning said:

“Overflows play a vital role in protecting our homes and businesses from flooding during periods of heavy rain.

“They are designed to prevent the sewer from backing up and are critical components when it comes to managing large volumes of rainwater.

“This project will ensure discharges – which only happen when the sewer reaches capacity – will be screened, helping to prevent wipes and sewer-related debris from entering the Water of Leith.”

The project is part of Scottish Water's Improving Urban Waters programme, an additional £500 million package of investment to improve the environment.