Dores Proposed Investment

Scottish Water, working with alliance partner Caledonia Water Alliance (CWA), is developing proposals to improve the resilience of the water supply for Inverness, Nairn and surrounding areas while continuing to support growth in the area.

The scheme would allow water to be drawn from Loch Ness, particularly during dry summers, and pumped to Inverness Water Treatment Works which is currently supplied by Lochs Ashie and Duntelchaig.

The main elements of the proposed project would be:

• Underwater intake within Loch Ness
• Pumping station set back from the loch-side, south west of Dores
• Approx. 6km of underground water main
• A partly buried water tank opposite entrance to Inverness Water Treatment Works

A decision on the project and its timing will be taken next year, subject to the outcome of the planning process.

Scottish Water Corporate Affairs Manager Gavin Steel said: “We have been in contact with the community in Dores over recent years about the development of this proposed project and have been grateful for their input and their patience.

“This is a significant potential project, which we need to consider carefully to ensure we select the best option to meet the long-term needs of our customers in the Highland Capital, Nairn and surrounding areas.  We also want to ensure the potential impacts of construction work on local residents and businesses are well managed so that any work leaves a positive legacy for the area."

Community Engagement

An information event to update members of local communities on the potential project was held at Dores Village Hall on Monday 2 December.

View the information that was on display at the meeting