A range of measures could be introduced to tackle problems at a polluted burn in Portlethen. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is recommending a number of actions to improve the water quality and habitat of Findon Burn. Some of the options being considered include:

• continuing the good work with companies on the Badentoy Industrial Estate to prevent pollution
  
• carrying out similar work with companies on the Porthlethen Industrial Estate
  
• asking organisations next to the burn to plant native shrubs and trees, and to stop using weedkiller.
  

The recommendations are contained in a progress report produced by SEPA, which details the activity so far and identifies other ways to improve the burn. Whatever actions are taken, the continued support and goodwill of the community council, local residents, Aberdeenshire Council and other organisations is essential.

Since 1999, SEPA and the North of Scotland Water Authority (NOSWA) have worked successfully with companies on the Badentoy Industrial Estate to reduce the impact they have on the burn. Surface water from yards and roads etc - known as ‘run-off’ - is one of the main reasons why the burn is polluted. Contaminants can come from vehicles and equipment being cleaned or maintained, as well as other activities. These contaminants become mixed together in the water run-off, making it very difficult to identify particular sources of pollution. Based on advice from SEPA and NOSWA, many companies on the estate have voluntarily taken action to reduce their environmental impact.

Louise Asher, Environmental Protection Officer, said: “One of SEPA’s aims is to improve the quality of polluted waters. There’s lots of scope for improvement and over the next few months we will be discussing the best options with organisations in the area. Dealing with environmental problems can take a long time, but improving Findon Burn is one of our priorities.”

ENDS