What E. coli contamination issues did Scottish Water face?

Scottish Water supplied water from a reservoir contaminated with E. coli for almost a year, despite repeated tests confirming its presence.

Were Scottish Water's storage tanks a health risk?

Yes, watchdogs deemed nearly 1,300 of Scottish Water's treated water storage points a 'danger to human health' in 2023.

What actions are being taken regarding the Burghead water contamination?

Local communities are demanding answers, and Scottish Water is investigating further after a repaired tank failed a subsequent water test.

Home / Environment / E. coli found; Scottish Water piped contaminated water for a year

E. coli found; Scottish Water piped contaminated water for a year

21 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Scottish Water supplied water contaminated with E. coli for nearly a year.
Thousands of homes received water from a reservoir with deadly bugs.
Watchdogs warned of 'danger to human health' with suspect water tanks.

E. coli found; Scottish Water piped contaminated water for a year

Scottish Water has faced severe criticism for supplying water contaminated with E. coli for nearly a year, putting public health at risk. Tests in late 2024 detected the deadly bacteria in a reservoir supplying Burghead, yet the company continued piping from it until July. This occurred despite a prior warning from watchdogs in 2023, who identified nearly 1,300 treated water storage points as a 'danger to human health'.

Locals in Burghead are demanding explanations, with community council representatives expressing anger and concern over the lack of notification and the potential health risks. The Drinking Water Quality Regulator (DWQR) had ordered an emergency clean-up of these storage facilities, which often hold tens of thousands of litres of water. Animal remains and coliforms were among previous findings in other storage tanks across Scotland.