Water scarcity – Council supporting users of private water supplies

The Highland Council’s Environmental Health Team is advising users of private water supplies to take preventative steps to preserve their drinking water. Following a mild Winter and Spring, there is increasing pressures on water supplies. Highland Council continues to provide support to a number of properties experiencing water shortages and is encouraging everyone to use water wisely. 

There are more than 2,500 private water supplies in the Highlands serving a population of over 30,000. These supplies are located in rural areas where treated mains water connections are not available.

Officers are advising consumers to use their water wisely and take time to check their private water supply systems for any signs of water leaks or risks of contamination.

Users of untreated supplies should ensure they boil water before drinking, cooking and brushing teeth. Those using such supplies may be eligible for grant funding towards treatment – contact the Council’s Environmental Health team for information.

Highland Council Senior Environmental Health Officer, Patricia Sheldon, said: “In recent weeks our Service has received renewed calls from users concerned that their private water supplies are drying up. With lower than expected rainfall  and ground water levels not fully recovered from water scarcity levels last Summer, it is really important that water should be used wisely.  The Council is assisting where we can and would encourage anyone who is having issues with their private supply to get in touch with us, both about short term solutions and thinking about the longer term.”

Grants may be available to improve the source of a private water supply and improve water security measures such as increasing water tank storage capacity.  

If you need assistance in relation to a private water supply, please contact the Council by phoning 01349 886608 (during office hours) or by emailing: env.health@highland.gov.uk.