Evelyn Tweed MSP has called for continued environmental assessment and support for local businesses after securing a statement from the Government on the Killin diesel spill through a Topical Question in the Scottish Parliament.
River Dochart has become contaminated after a fuel station at Lix Toll led to a diesel spill. There are also concerns that the contamination has spread into Loch Tay, causing larger concerns of potential risks to the River Tay system. In the immediate events following the spillage, there were limitations put in place on Killin’s use of tap water. This has caused disruption to local residents and businesses.
During Topical Questions, Evelyn Tweed inquired on what participation the Scottish Government had undertaken with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Scottish Water concerning the incident and the concerns over the environment for the wider river system.
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, Gillian Martin, responded to the Stirling MSP and established that ministers were made aware on Friday and received regular updates throughout the course of the weekend.
The limitations placed on the use of tap water in Killin have been lifted as it has once again been confirmed as safe to drink. SEPA inspections have shown that the east end of Loch Tay stays clear, and that there have been no impacts shown on the River Tay.
Ecological surveys and wider environmental assessments remain ongoing. Despite the progression with the lift of restrictions on tap water, Evelyn Tweed stressed that concerns remain locally about wildlife, long-term environmental monitoring and support for businesses affected by the disruption.
Speaking after the question, Evelyn Tweed said:
“I welcome confirmation that water supplies are now safe, and I am grateful to all those who worked so quickly to respond to this incident. The response from Scottish Water and local residents was outstanding.
“However, there are still understandable questions about the environmental impact on the River Dochart, Loch Tay and the wider River Tay system. It is important that investigations are thorough and transparent, and that any necessary clean-up and mitigation continues.
“This has also been an incredibly difficult and frustrating period for many in Killin. Local businesses, including care homes, dental practices and hospitality providers, experienced real disruption. I will be meeting with SEPA later this week to discuss the ongoing environmental concerns, and will continue to raise the ongoing concerns of constituents with the relevant parties in the weeks ahead.
“If anyone has concerns, please do contact me on evelyn.tweed.msp@parliament.co.uk and my team and I will do all that we can.”
The Cabinet Secretary confirmed that Scottish Water will continue routine monitoring of drinking water in line with strict public health standards, and that the Drinking Water Quality Regulator for Scotland will undertake a formal investigation once the immediate response phase concludes.
Evelyn Tweed will continue engaging with SEPA and other agencies to ensure that both environmental protection and business resilience remain priorities as the situation develops.
Featured image credit: The Scottish Parliament
