Nursery kids visit nearby waterworks construction site

Pupils at Cardross Nursery were fascinated by some bright yellow diggers as they were shown around a £1.6 million Scottish Water flood work prevention project.

The ongoing project aims to address recurring issues of internal and external sewer flooding in nearly a dozen local properties as well as Geilston Park and nearby tennis courts.

Scottish Water along with partners Caledonia Water Alliance invited the youngsters to give them a unique opportunity to see how this infrastructure can protect their community.

The construction equipment was a fan favourite as pupils were given a chance to strike a pose on the digger.

Pupils had a chance to get a photo on the diggers (Image: Scottish Water) The newly screened Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) being constructed will safely divert excess rainwater if the sewer network becomes overwhelmed during extreme weather, significantly reducing the risk of sewer flooding. 

Early years practitioner, Wilma Birch, said “We were delighted to be approached by Scottish Water and Caledonia Water Alliance to learn more about their current work in our local park.

“The project team explained their work and helped introduce key health and safety messages to our preschool children. We learned about the water and wastewater systems and the importance of not flushing wipes and other items down the toilets.

“Outdoor learning is a key part of our curriculum, so we appreciated the walk to the park, incorporating vital road safety messages, and lessons on how to be safe around the construction site.

“The children (and staff) were challenged to have a turn sitting in the digger, which we all enjoyed very much. We have already had positive feedback from parents and on social media, so many thanks to all involved.”

Scottish Water’s Alliance team manager, Steven Greenhill, said: “Our work in Cardross is a crucial step in addressing the issues of sewer flooding that has affected local homes and community spaces. The construction of the new CSO will significantly reduce the risk of sewer flooding by diverting excess stormwater, therefore better protecting the community.

“We appreciate the community’s support during construction, and it was a pleasure to be able to share the project’s value with the nursery children during their visit. It’s rewarding to know that our work will benefit both current and future generations.”

Paul Milligan, communication manager for Caledonia Water Alliance, said “It was a pleasure to welcome the children to our site and their enthusiasm and curiosity were infectious. It is great to see the next generation taking an interest in such an important project.

“This is an essential project for Cardross, with the new CSO being a critical component in managing flows during peak rainfall and preventing sewer flooding into homes and the surrounding area.”

This is part of Scottish Water’s investment in capital projects – over a billion pounds in the last financial year – to improve its infrastructure and address the increasing demand and impacts of climate change.