SCOTTISH Water’s plan to have a new sewage outfall erected near by the Tarholm Bridge has been approved by South Ayrshire Council.

The new outfall was approved by a council committee chaired by Councillor Peter Convery despite objections from local fishing clubs and river users.
The new construction is required by European Directive as well as the Scottish Government however, the planning approval however was subject to councillor scrutiny.

Scottish Water claimed that the river quality would be improved by the new outfall as well as having little visual impact.

The group of objectors, one of which is a swimmer in the river having done so since he was child felt this construction of a sewage outfall could kill the fishing clubs as well  asrecreational use. 

Councillor Ian Cavana shared the concerns. 
He said: “I have got concerns. 

“The fishing club going down and the lack of recreational use would be worrying due to this installation.”

It was revealed that Scottish Water assessed two spots on the River Ayr near Tarholm. 

One other area was 500m up the river but did not have any near by road access however, was not used for recreational uses as well as fishing. 

Cllr  Hugh Hunter asked: “Why does it have to be specifically at that area?”
However, councillors were reminded to assess the area subject to planning than any other hypothetical areas. 

An amendment was then made to refuse the application on the grounds of a negative impact on the recreational use of the River Ayr.

However Scottish Water’s plans were approved with five votes in favour and two against.