An investigation into reports of sewage entering the Allan Water in Dunblane is underway, with residents pressing for concrete answers. The river, which flows through the town centre, was seen this week carrying a sludgy residue, sparking concern over its cause.
Councillor takes up the case
Dunblane councillor Alasdair Tollemache has raised the issue with representatives from Scottish Water and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). Initial checks by both bodies have not yet produced a plan of action, with SEPA indicating the source remains unidentified.
Cllr Tollemache said: “Dunblane residents are increasingly concerned about this pollution and that no solution has yet been found. It’s very important that this is resolved and the pollution of the river is stopped. I have contacted Scottish Water direct and have been assured that an investigation is taking place to see if it is coming from a Scottish Water source. Residents feel that there has been a lack of urgency in resolving this issue.”
Scottish Water responds
A Scottish Water spokeswoman said: “Following reports of a potential sewage discharge to the Allan Water in Dunblane, we undertook a detailed investigation of the area, including a CCTV survey of the local sewer network. Our initial investigation found that the surface water line in question is a culverted watercourse and not part of the Scottish Water sewer network. Inspections also confirmed that the nearby Storm Overflow is operating as designed. Further investigations are ongoing and we will share our findings with SEPA as they become available.”
Recent history of pollution
The latest incident follows similar reports in the spring, when the water was covered in a white, “paint-like” substance. That spill was linked to a surface water drain and prompted SEPA warnings for locals to be cautious about draining chemicals, oils, detergents, and vehicle washings.
A SEPA spokesman said: “SEPA has received multiple reports of sewage discharging to the Allan Water via a culverted watercourse at Millrow, Dunblane. SEPA officers attended the site on several occasions last week but have been unable to identify the source, indicating an intermittent issue. Scottish Water are investigating potential sources within their network and we are awaiting feedback from them on their findings.”
