Modular units head north as progress continues on £51m water works project

PROGRESS is being made on a new water treatment works in the North Mainland – with Scottish Water saying the estimated cost of the project has now risen to around £51 million.

The new Eela Water facility will feature 42 modular units, which have been shipped to Shetland from the Scottish mainland and are now on site.

The current plant, built in 1978, provides approximately 4.3 million litres of water a day to around 5,400 residents.

Scottish Water said the new 5.7Ml/d ceramic membrane treatment facility – being built by Ross-Shire Engineering (RSE) – will feature “modern technology and techniques”.

Cost estimates for the project have risen to £51.3 million, which includes risk allowance, a Scottish Water spokesperson confirmed to Shetland News.

RSE recently took delivery of the modular units via sea transport, with plans to start commissioning these in January 2026.

Scottish Water project manager David Lavery said Eela Water is a “key site” for customers in Shetland.

“We are planning to provide some of the most state-of-the-art systems and help minimise disruption to communities when things do happen,” he said.

“This investment shows our commitment to keeping customers connected and up to date across the country.”

Michael Agolini, delivery manager for RSE Water Technologies, added: “Our mission is to redefine how water treatment infrastructure is delivered.

“Through modular design, digital integration, and sustainable materials, RSE is setting new standards for quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.”

Early estimates of the project cost were previously given as more than £45 million.