Gorgie Road Edinburgh
Project Overview
We are upgrading the waste water network in Gorgie, Edinburgh to improve the water environment by reducing sewer related debris entering the Water of Leith.
The work is part of our £500m Improving Urban Waters programme.
The £3m project on Gorgie Road at Saughton Park is expected to be completed by July 2026.
At a Glance
- To prevent sewer related debris entering the Water of Leith
- £3million investment
- Delivered by Caledonia Water Alliance
- Work started January 2026
Gorgie Road
The storm overflow is located under Gorgie Road which is closed to allow the work to be carried out safely
What We Are Doing
We are constructing a new spill chamber around the existing Victorian storm overflow located under Gorgie Road at Saughton Park.
A powered screen will prevent any sewer related debris larger than just 6mm from entering the environment during heavy rain when the overflow spills to prevent homes and businesses from flooding.
Gorgie Road will be closed between Robb’s Loan and Hutchison Crossway from Sunday 25 January 2026 although access to private driveways will be maintained.
A new spill chamber will be installed on the existing overflow
Improving Urban Waters Investment
Why We Are Doing It
Working closely with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Scottish Water identified priority storm overflows for improvement or replacement.
Under the banner ‘Draining the Ran, Enhancing the Environment’ the Improving Urban Waters investment will help reduce spills and prevent sewage related debris such as wet wipes from entering the environment during periods of rainfall.
Protecting the Environment
The new screened storm overflow will help protect the nearby Water of Leith from sewer related debris entering the environment during heavy rain
Update June 2026
Work has been progressing well and operatives have now completed installation of a new storm overflow chamber underneath the carriageway.
June is an important month and we are now working with other agencies to install the power supply and carry out the remaining work that is required to complete delivery of this important investment. We remain on track to complete the project by the end of July 2026.
We appreciate that the full closure of Gorgie Road is disruptive and remain extremely grateful for the patience, understanding and cooperation that has been shown by the community so far and we remain committed to completing the project as quickly as possible.
The project will significantly reduce debris entering the Water of Leith, supporting cleaner rivers and a healthier environment for people and wildlife.
The new storm overflow is being built under the carriageway
A full road closure is needed to carry out the work safely
Community Engagement
A drop in information event was held at Bainfield Bowling Club in November 2025.
