The £1.3 million Scottish Water scheme will see treated waste being dischagerd directly into the river rather than reach it via the Mashock Burn, from where it has been pumped for a number of years.

The scheme met strong local opposition, not least from Willie and Sandy Watson on whose stretch of riverbed the new discharge pipe will enter the Clyde.

But the Scottish Government recently decided not to intervene in the scheme and Scottish Water said this week that work had started.

At the same time, it attempted to quell any fears of damage to the river's wildlife population, claiming studies had given the scheme the all-clear, environmentally.

Gary Laing, Scottish Water's project manager, said: "A fish habitat survey was undertaken and no salmon redds (egg sacs/collections) were found.

"In addition, a protected species survey was carried out and showed otter evidence and suitable habitat around the River Clyde and Mashock Burn.

"We have been in consultation with SNH and the Scottish Government regarding the results and mitigation methods will be followed to ensure we minimise disturbance to the otters."

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