Business leaders in a busy Highland village who have already braved the recession fear a sewage plant could prove “the death-knell” for their local economy.
The owner of a thriving cafe in Ardersier – close to closure-threatened Fort George barracks – has reluctantly warned that she may have to cease trading.
While concerned about the possible axe for the garrison, she – and others – are also worried about Scottish Water’s insistence that an existing sewage plant in the village is substantially upgraded to accommodate the new town of Tornagrain and growth elsewhere rather than building one from scratch closer to the main development.
Ardersier is laden with posters opposing both the treatment works upgrade and possible garrison shutdown.
Talks early this week involving community and ultility representatives have not appeased objectors.
While Scottish Water assesses the feedback opponents described the situation as “an impasse.”
Hazel Cameron who owns the popular village cafe “On the High Street” said: “Our biggest concern is the waste water works. If that goes ahead we won’t be here.
“I really think we’d be out of business because most of our business is passing trade and tourists. It would be a nail in the coffin for Adersier, plunging this village back into depression.”
Highland councillors will next week consider an application from Scottish Water to install an ultraviolet treatment plant at the site as part of an upgrade that will require a replacement access and extension of perimeter fencing. A “UV” disinfection plant would improve water quality to “bathing water standard,” according to Scottish Water.
A spokesman said: “The purpose of this essential investment is to protect and enhance the environment of the Moray Firth while meeting the needs of housing and wider economic growth anticipated in the area.
“We’re listening carefully to the views of the community. We take every step to minimise inconvenience and promote businesses as being open as normal, and this is very much our focus at Ardersier.
“When carrying out investment projects our teams and contractors often use local businesses, helping to grow and sustain local economies.”