WORK has restarted on a near-£7m water improvement project at Loch Thom in the hills above Greenock.

Scottish Water’s £6.9m investment scheme is back on site at the reservoir following the lifting of lockdown measures.

Bosses say the site is a 'hive of activity' even despite the current Covid-19 restrictions, and it is being held up as a blueprint for other big projects to follow.

Once complete the substantial improvements being carried out will help safeguard the reservoir and allow a greater volume of water to be drawn from it when required.

Contractors George Leslie Ltd have put measures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the workers who are improving our water infrastructure.

As well as segregated welfare facilities, social distancing and additional hygiene practices, dedicated monitors in each of the squads working on-site are on hand to offer guidance.

Tony Judge, reservoir safety team manager, is the supervising engineer for Loch Thom and says he is impressed at how the site is operating under the current unusual circumstances.

Mr Judge said: “It’s been a great team effort to get this project re-mobilised.

"Everyone has taken the new working procedures in their stride while at the same time recognising the importance of them.

“George Leslie implemented Covid-19 monitors and they have been a key part of the site’s success.

"The monitors oversee daily tasks, ensure team members have suitable PPE and make sure everyone follows the correct procedures while adhering to the guidance that has been set out for the construction industry.

"The site is a great example of how things should be done and will be used as a blueprint for projects going forward.”

Loch Thom provides drinking water to around 100,000 people in Greenock, Port Glasgow, Lochwinnoch and the surrounding areas.