Bilston Burn Midlothian
Project Overview
We are upgrading the waste water network in Bilston to improve water quality and reduce sewer related debris entering the Bilston Burn.
The work is part of our £500m Improving Urban Waters programme.
The £6.6m project is expected to be completed by spring 2027
At A Glance
- To improve water quality and prevent sewer related debris entering the Bilston Burn
- £6.6million investment
- Delivered by Caledonia Water Alliance
- Work to begin in February 2026
Overflow Underground
The new storm overflow and storage tank will be installed underneath Bilston park. A new outfall to Bilston Burn will also be constructed to allow excess rainwater to be safely diverted
What We Are Doing
We are constructing a new storm overflow with a powered screen as well as a large storage tank under Bilston public park.
New sewer pipes will be installed, and a new outfall will allow excess rain water to be safely diverted into the nearby burn during extreme weather.
Caerketton Avenue will be the main route for site deliveries
The project is part of the £500m Improve Urban Waters programme
Why We Are Doing It
Working closely with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Scottish Water identified priority storm overflows for improvement or replacement.
Under the banner ‘Draining the Ran, Enhancing the Environment’ the Improving Urban Waters investment will help reduce spills, improve water quality and prevent sewage related debris such as wet wiles from entering the environment during periods of rainfall.
Storm Tank
An attenuation tank will be installed to hold excess rainwater, significantly reducing the risk of spills and flooding. Once levels in the sewer subside, the water can be pumped back into the system
Update January 2026
We will begin setting up our site compound on land just off Myrtle Crescent on Monday 9 February 2026.
Parking restrictions will be in place on Caerketton Avenue to safely manage access for HGVs and large deliveries although pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.
The footpath through Bilston park will be closed for the duration of the project and we would ask people to follow all signage in place.
Everything will be done to keep disruption to a minimum and we would like to thank all those affected for their patience and understanding.
