Invercannie Water Treatment Works

Hailed a jewel in the crown of engineering success, the treatment works at Banchory was opened by Queen Victoria in 1866 to supply Aberdeen’s drinking water. In modern times, it is the main source for the region, delivering water for around 300,000 customers.

The contract was part of the Efficient Service Delivery (ESD), a Black & Veatch, Galliford Try and MWH Treatment Joint Venture awarded by Scottish Water. The latter’s 25-year strategic plan is a commitment to invest in ageing reservoirs, water treatment works and pumping stations across Scotland, such as the Victorian-era infrastructure at Invercannie.

The three reinforced concrete structures Careys built comprised a Chlorine Contact Tank (CCT), Clear Water Tank (CWT) and Dissolved Air Flotation Tank (DAF), as well as associated pipe galleries.

The site location and 24-hour operational nature of the water treatment works presented the Careys team with a number of challenges, notably working around existing services, infrastructure and people. Early stage and ongoing direct engagement with occupiers culminated in bespoke logistics, programme and safety strategies that accounted for both parties’ operations. Essentially, access was maintained at all times, and any impact on deliveries and construction works was carefully considered to minimise disruption.