Joint initiative aims to stop pollution of Aberdeen burn
Posted: Friday 12th October 2007
Poor water quality in an Aberdeen burn is to be investigated in a new initiative by three environmental bodies.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Water and Aberdeen City Council are joining forces to tackle continuing pollution of the East Tullos Burn in Torry. The burn flows through the Balnagask amenity area and businesses in the area will be visited as part of the investigation.
The East Tullos Burn is routinely monitored by SEPA and has suffered from water quality problems over many years. Contaminants can enter the burn via surface water drains serving roads, industrial and commercial units in the Altens and East Tullos Industrial Estates. The level of contaminants from individual business going into the burn is generally low. It is the combined effect of various contaminants being discharged into the burn that is causing water quality problems.
Colin Gray of SEPA said: “The initiative will aim to raise awareness of water pollution issues with businesses in the industrial estates. It is also planned to increase regulatory activity in the area to ensure improvements. In addition, measures are being considered to improve the environment of the area around the burn and to treat the water as it flows into the amenity area by allowing it to pass through a wetland.”
A wetland is a type of natural water treatment, that uses plants and low water flows to reduce contamination and remove solid particles. Other similar schemes in urban areas have allowed beneficial insects and birds to re-establish, and can be used for educational purposes.
Mr Gray added: “Once outline proposals have been developed, we will consult with the local community, including residents and local businesses.”
