An MP has called for action to get rid of a bad smell in an Aberdeen neighbourhood that has been dubbed the “Torry pong”.
Dame Anne Begg, Labour MP for Aberdeen South, has written to the boss of Scottish Water to demand a solution to extinguish the lingering odour.
She asked Douglas Millican, the agency’s chief executive, to draw up plans to tackle the problem.
Dame Anne said: “I have been aware of the odour problem associated with the Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTW) for many years and, despite the many reassurances that the issue will be resolved, to date nothing has achieved a lasting solution.
“The residents of Torry have been extremely patient while Scottish Water investigate the cause of the odour.
“I think they’re patience should now be rewarded by a clear commitment from Scottish Water to ensure that this issue is solved once and for all.”
Scottish Water said it was moving to solve a problem linked to Nigg WWTW.
In a statement last night it said: “This year we have experienced some problems at the works that have caused an increase in odours and we apologise for the inconvenience this has caused our customers in Torry.
“We will be commissioning Professor Rob Jackson, a noted expert in waste water management, to independently review and comment upon the odour issues which have impacted upon the Torry community.
“In addition, the works operator, Kelda Water Services, will be carrying out a full shutdown of the Sludge Treatment Centre at Nigg WWTW from today for five days.
“The shutdown is required to carry out essential mandatory inspections and also to carry out improvement works which will reduce the risk of odours in future by reducing the frequency at which the vessels are currently opened.
“This will bring with it an increase in the risk of odour, as all pressure vessels will be open to atmosphere.
“Local people should be assured that Kelda Water will ensure that these operations will be carried out as quickly as possible, and all measures taken to minimise odour risk.
“Scottish Water apologises for any inconvenience caused during this time.”