Work to stop material from a former landfill site seeping into the River Ericht as it flows through Blairgowrie has been suspended following the discovery of asbestos.
Perth and Kinross Council started an eight-week project to remove waste from a 60-metre stretch of the embankment at Welton Farm on June 20.
Flooding exposed a part of the former dump in early 2021, and rubbish and chemical waste fell into the river on several occasions as a result of the damage.
Agencies such as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and NatureScot have been involved in discussions associated with the project, as well as groups such as the Tay District Salmon Fisheries Board.
However, a statement published on the council’s Facebook page on Tuesday last week stated: “Residents of Blairgowrie may have noticed that ongoing works to remove waste from the former landfill site beside the River Ericht and rebuild the river embankment to prevent further erosion have recently stopped.
“This is because an element of asbestos was found on site on June 28.
“As a result, we need to temporarily stop works on site while we determine the best and safest way of dealing with this material.
“We are taking specialist advice, and are continuing to liaise with the Health and Safety Executive and SEPA.
“We intend to complete the planned works on part of the excavated embankment within the next few weeks.
“The other section will be capped to minimise any risk to public health and safety while we consider our next steps.”
In conjunction with the Scottish Government, the council has appointed McGowan Environmental Ltd to carry out the originally-planned work.
An ecological clerk of works has also been appointed.
In April, it was confirmed that PKC and the Scottish Government have each pledged £95,000 towards the project.
