Massive storage tanks signal £12m project to prevent properties flooding in Springburn

Two massive storage tanks, each 25 metres (82 feet) in diameter and 18 metres (60 feet) deep, will provide 13,500 cubic metres of extra storm water storage in the local sewer network.

Up to 34 properties in the Elmvale Row area of the town have suffered from flooding over several years and the aim is to substantially reduce the risk.

The work is part of a £250 million upgrade by Scottish Water in Greater Glasgow area’s waste water infrastructure – the biggest in more than a century.

Work is progressing across the area to convert the ageing infrastructure into a modern, integrated and sustainable drainage system that will improve the environment on the River Clyde and its tributaries and help tackle flooding and climate change.

On a visit to the area on Wednesday, January 27, Keith Brown MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and

Cities, said: “This project at Elmvale Row is a key part of Scottish Water’s massive investment in the waste water network across Greater Glasgow.

“I’m pleased this project is progressing well and will provide much needed relief to those in this area who have been affected by regular floods in the past. It demonstrates Scottish Water’s commitment to tackling these problems and the Government’s support for this kind of investment to address flooding issues.”

A total of 34 properties in the Elmvale Row area have experienced recurring problems with flooding for a number of years, including flooding to garages, car parks and roadways.

The project also includes the upsizing of about 400 metres of waste water pipes in Elmvale Row, Elmvale Street, Ratho Drive, Fernbank Street and Hawthorn Street. The project is expected to be completed late this year.

During his visit to the project, Mr Brown met some pupils from nearby Elmvale Primary School and heard about site visits by pupils and a competition in which they drew pictures about safety around construction sites, which are on display at the project.

During the project so far, about 30,000 tonnes of rock have been removed, which was sent for recycling, and 14,000 tonnes of

contaminated material, which was taken for treatment as opposed to landfill.

Mr Geoff Aitkenhead, Scottish Water’s executive director of capital investment, said: “We’re making good progress with all of this investment in the Greater Glasgow area’s waste water infrastructure, the biggest in living memory.

“The environment and communities throughout Greater Glasgow will benefit hugely from this because it will protect the natural environment and meet the needs of growth, economic development and regeneration for many years to come.”