Emergency support for users of private water supplies in Highlands
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An emergency scheme has been set up to ensure safe drinking water for householders in the Highlands who rely on a private water supply.
The Emergency Water Scarcity Scheme was announced today by Highland Council in partnership with Scottish Water and the Scottish Government.
A private water supply is a property that does not have a Scottish Water mains water connection. These supplies are usually in rural areas, and there are 2550 private water supplies registered in the Highlands.
The council’s environmental health team has warned that, following below-average rainfall, some private water supplies in the region could run low and that significant rainfall will be needed to replenish water levels.
Householders with private water supplies are advised to “use their water wisely” and check for any signs of leaks or risks of contamination.
Anyone whose water supply is untreated, or who cannot at the present time maintain their water treatment system, is advised to boil their water before drinking, cooking and brushing teeth as a precautionary public health measure.
As part of the scheme, the council can supply and deliver bottled water, at no cost, to domestic private water supply users who are eligible. This support is in addition to the council’s current grant funding that can offer up to £800 to carry out longer-term improvements to a private water supply system.
Senior environmental health officer Patricia Sheldon said: “We have recently received a number of calls from vulnerable persons and families concerned about their water supplies so it’s very reassuring that, with the help of the Scottish Government, the council can provide support to communities and individuals who are experiencing problems with their domestic private water supplies at this time.
"It’s important that we all look to use our water wisely, particularly if your water comes from a private water supply. The council is assisting where we can, and I would encourage anyone who has concerns about their private supply to get in touch with us so that we can discuss short-term solutions to their water consumption needs and to think about longer-term solutions to improve their water systems.”
If you are served by a private water supply and need assistance under the scheme, contact the environmental health team by email envhealth@highland.gov.uk or calling 01349 886603.
