Multi-million water investment keeps outdoor capital cool

Mountain bikers are helping highlight the importance of keeping hydrated during outdoor activities … and how Scottish Water’s multi-million pounds investment in the Outdoor Capital of the UK is supporting Lochaber’s vital tourism economy.

Barry Hardy, Scottish Water’s planner for Lochaber, said:

“Visitors like hill walkers and mountain bikers need to keep hydrated so it’s important they can fill up on good quality water before they venture out. It’s also important that all our customers can continue to rely on clear, fresh drinking water at the turn of a tap. ”

Marian Austin, Managing Director of Nevis Range, said:

"Keeping yourself hydrated whilst doing sporting activities is extremely important and at Nevis Range we welcome a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts - walkers, climbers, mountain bikers, skiers, snowboarders, and paragliders.

A large proportion of visitors stay overnight in the local area, and at the Mountain Bike World Cup in the early summer, some 16,000 spectators and riders would have enjoyed the local water whilst they baked in the Lochaber sunshine!"

Water way to enjoy the great outdoors

Scottish Water is looking to encourage people of all ages to drink the recommended quantity of water every day. Whether young or old, it’s important to keep the body properly hydrated – Scottish Water’s investment means it is easier than ever with clearer, fresher drinking water on tap.

About two-thirds of the human body is made up of water and it is therefore a vital nutrient in lubricating joints, keeping skin soft, teeth healthy and maintaining hydrated and healthy muscles.

Drinking water before, during and after physical activity helps us stay alert and have extra energy. Healthy and hydrated muscle tissue is around 75% water and drinking 6-8 glasses every day can help prevent tiredness and cramps.

Everyday Scottish Water delivers more than 800 million litres of this vital nutrient direct to taps across Scotland. And on average, customers can still get all their water needs for less than a pound a day.

What we're doing

Fort William water treatment works serves the bustling Highland town and surrounding areas with an average of 9 million litres a day.

The investment is designed to improve the filtration of the water and provide better control over the way it is made safe for drinking.

Amount invested

£2.7 million