MSP COLIN BEATTIE DEMANDS URGENT ACTION OVER RIVER ESK SEWAGE AND POLLUTION ISSUES

Today Midlothian North MSP Colin Beattie demanded urgent action from the relevant authorities to clean up the sewage that has polluted the Mary Burn and River Esk. He visited the site on Saturday the 22 of September to see the issues first hand.
The debris that has made its way to the burn are things like wet wipes and sanitary items, which has polluted and affected wildlife as well as risked public health of both people and animals.
Mr. Beattie has written to Scottish Water, Midlothian Council and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency to ask them to take immediate measures to remove the pollution, protect local residents and wildlife from the effects of it, to initiate a thorough investigation examining how the pollution originated and what steps will be taken to prevent reoccurrence.
Mr. Beattie intends to continue to visit the site regularly to observe the clean-up process and ensure a clean environment.
Colin Beattie MSP said:
“To have the beauty of this rural gem polluted by sewage sediment and sanitary waste is of real cause of concern to the environment and to the effect it has on public health.”
“Based on the number of people who have contacted me in regards to this issue, it is clear that the burn is in great usage from children or ramblers. It’s a great concern that the burn itself has put the entire ecosystem in danger, and it’s important to ensure these issues do not happen again.”
“I understand from Scottish Water that a clean-up is now in progress, but it hasn’t been made clear to me how long this is going to take or how expensive it’s going to be.”
“I’m seeking solid reassurances that this situation won’t reoccur.”

For the full video of Mr Beattie’s visit see the link at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1Alf49RTQM
 
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