THE proposed Glencorse Water Treatment Works should be open for business in summer 2010.
The Edinburgh drinking water project, which will replace facilities at Fairmilehead and Alnwickhill, will be based on Edinburgh University land, a few miles south of Flotterstone, off the A702.
It is anticipated that Scottish Water will lodge a pl
anning application with Midlothian Council later this year. Construction work is scheduled to start in summer 2008 and there will be a two year construction programme.
Addressing Penicuik and District Community Council this month, senior project manager Richard Anderson said the site, off Bellwood Road and Mauricewood Road, Penicuik, had been chosen because of the Scottish Water’s long-standing relationship with Glencorse.
In addition, it was the highest site in Midlothian, meaning that gravity would be used to carry the water in most places.
The WTW’s location would also support the future development and growth of the science and technology parks in the area and the proposed Shawfair development at Millerhill and Danderhall.
Mr Anderson explained that architects had been engaged to design a WTW, which would take its surroundings into consideration.
“It will be taking into account its neighbours and views from the Pentland Hills. This is very much building in sympathy with the landscape, which will be discreet and have a low impact on the environment,” he said.
New pipeline techniques are to be considered for the project, which will involve an 18 month programme to lay pipes along a six mile route from Midlothian to Edinburgh. It is hoped disruption to roads will be kept to a minimum.
Mr Anderson added that as a result of the WTW, a roundabout would be constructed on the A702. There was also an opportunity to reinstate local walking areas.
Scottish Water is in the process of forming a community forum, which will include representatives of Damhead and Penicuik Community Councils, Pentland Hills Regional Park, the Friends of the Pentland Hills, and Edinburgh University.
Scottish Water will be looking to establish educational links by adopting classes at local schools.
