Balgreen

page banner saying Draining the Rain which denotes this is an Improving Urban Waters project

Project Overview

We have completed work to upgrade a storm overflow in Balgreen to help prevent sewer-related debris entering the Water of Leith and to improve the quality of this important urban watercourse.

This investment forms part of our £500 million Improving Urban Waters programme, which is focused on reducing the environmental impact of storm overflows in towns and cities across Scotland.

Work was delivered by Caledonia Water Alliance.

At a Glance

Upgrading the sewer network
Improving water quality
Delivered by Caledonian Water Alliance
Anticipated completion March 2026

Drone footage of pathway with soil on right hand side and greenery and trees on left

Upgrade to Balgreen Road Storm Overflow Complete

Work is complete and footpath closures have been lifted

Project Update May 2026

Scottish Water has now completed the Balgreen Road storm overflow upgrade project as part of our £500 million Improving Urban Waters programme.

The project has upgraded the local sewer network and storm overflow infrastructure beside Pansy Walk and the Water of Leith to help prevent sewer-related debris entering the watercourse during periods of heavy rainfall.

The works were delivered in two phases, including the diversion of a gas main, installation of new outfall pipework, construction of a new screened overflow chamber and decommissioning of the previous outfall arrangement. A new maintenance layby has also been created to support future operational access.

Throughout the project, temporary footpath closures were required between the Baird Drive railway tunnel and the footbridge linking Pansy Walk with Westfield Avenue to ensure the safety of the public and workforce while construction was underway. These restrictions have now been removed and the area has fully reopened.

Alongside the infrastructure improvements, Scottish Water is also proud to support the Balgreen Tunnel Community Artwork Project, which has transformed the nearby pedestrian tunnel with artwork inspired by local wildlife and ideas from local schoolchildren.

We would like to thank local residents, businesses, schools and everyone using the Water of Leith walkway for their patience and understanding throughout the works.

A view from above

The project will help prevent sewer-related debris such as wet wipes from entering the watercourse

Why We Are Doing It

In collaboration with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Water has identified priority storm overflows across Scotland that require improvement to protect water quality and reduce aesthetic impacts caused by sewer-related debris.

Under our ‘Draining the Rain, Enhancing the Environment’ approach, we are investing in targeted infrastructure upgrades that reduce the impact of heavy rainfall on urban watercourses.

This Balgreen project was one of those priority improvements and will deliver long-term environmental benefits for the Water of Leith and the surrounding community.

Balgreen Tunnel

Scottish Water has supported the Balgreen Tunnel Community Artwork Project, helping transform the pedestrian walkway into a vibrant mural celebrating local wildlife. The artwork, created by artists Calum Carr and Dallas Henderson Smith, was inspired by ideas from local schoolchildren and the wildlife found in nearby Saughton Park.

Now filled with colourful images of birds, bees, butterflies, otters and other native species, the tunnel has become a brighter, more welcoming space for the community. The project has given local people something to be proud of and created a positive environment for children, families and visitors to enjoy.