Scottish Water has confirmed it is reviewing a decision to place an “eyesore” kiosk at a north-east beauty spot, following a public backlash.
Locals claimed the large control box, constructed by the firm at the braehead on Newtonhill’s Skateraw Road, spoiled their view of the picturesque bay.
The kiosk was first spotted on Tuesday, with local councillor Ian Mollision calling for a small-scale alternative.
And last night, Scottish Water said it will be reviewing the decision to put the control box at the spot, which neighbours a sewage pumping station.
A Scottish Water spokesman said: “We are grateful to Mr Mollison for raising this issue. A replacement kiosk – close to an essential waste water pumping station – was recently installed by Kelda Water Services, who operate infrastructure in the area on our behalf.
“In light of the feedback received about the kiosk, we are looking to identify whether there are any potential solutions which would allow the local waste water network to continue operating effectively while allowing people to continue enjoying views from this location.”
Last night, Lib Dem Mr Mollison added: “That is a very welcome response from Scottish Water and we would hope they will be able to do something positive, either by reducing the height of the cabinet or putting it underground.
“That [the latter option] might not be technically possible, but something that is lower in height would be welcome.
“Unless you are more than 6ft 6in tall, you can’t see over it. There is already a grit bin and a litter bin and another cabinet put there by Scottish Water, so it is all a bit crowded.
“I don’t think anybody knew it was going to be the scale it is. We knew work was being carried out on behalf of Scottish Water, but nobody expected something about 6ft tall and between 8ft and 10ft wide.”
The neighbouring pumping station takes foul water from Muchalls and the Newtonhill bay area on to the water treatment plant at Nigg Bay in Aberdeen.
