Baddinsgill Reservoir
Project Details:
Baddinsgill Reservoir is a vital part of the Scottish Water network, supporting water supply resilience in the region. AG Wilson was appointed to deliver a multi-phase programme of enabling and investigative works to restore and future-proof this critical infrastructure.
The project was delivered in three distinct phases:
- Phase 1: Early 2023 saw a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) diver survey of the Tower Inlet draw-off valves, assessing their operational condition and informing the scope of future works.
- Phase 2: In autumn 2023, the AG Wilson team surveyed the 600mm inlet pipework to verify “as built” drawings and gather essential data for isolating the inlet pipe. This enabled the safe dismantling and investigation of the partially functional guard valve.
- Phase 3: Beginning April 2024, the reservoir was isolated by installing a 600mm blank flange at the Tower Inlet, providing safe access to strip and repair the scour valve.
Throughout, the team overcame significant technical challenges, including the need to sterilise all plant and equipment entering the reservoir with a chlorine solution to prevent pollution. A dedicated chlorine station was established nearby, ensuring all equipment was pressure-washed and compliant before use.
Complex Dive Operations and Safety
The project required complex underwater works in almost zero-visibility conditions, with high silt levels and confined spaces increasing risk. Specialist dive teams were engaged to carry out surveys, remove and reinstate critical components, and ensure diver safety through rigorous risk assessments and decompression planning. The use of an ROV for initial inspections reduced risk to personnel, while electric workboats and battery-operated hand tools eliminated hydrocarbon risks on the reservoir.
Sustainability and Environmental Protection
Sustainability was central to the project’s delivery. A gravity-driven syphon system was deployed, using negligible fuel and operating silently, thus eliminating noise pollution. A comprehensive pollution prevention plan was commissioned and implemented, with no negative impacts recorded. The Environmental Clerk of Works was present throughout for compliance monitoring, and strict environmental controls prevented cross-contamination and protected the watercourse and treatment works.
Digital Innovation and Collaborative Delivery
AG Wilson’s digital site files and bespoke project management app provided real-time visibility into project progress, health, safety, and environmental compliance for Scottish Water and all stakeholders. Weekly progress meetings, on-site project management, and early engagement with specialist contractors ensured seamless communication, rapid decision-making, and efficient delivery. This collaborative approach minimised disruption, managed industrial action and site access challenges, and maintained 24-hour site security.
Project Outcome
The Baddinsgill Reservoir project successfully returned the critical scour valve to full operational service. AG Wilson achieved its goals of technical excellence, sustainability, and industry-leading safety, setting a benchmark for collaborative, environmentally responsible reservoir delivery in Scotland.