University to sell ‘surplus’ reservoir
Waltersmuir site will go under the hammer
A Dunblane reservoir owned by Stirling University will go under the hammer next week.
The larger Waltersmuir reservoir which had been used by Stirling University’s Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) is considered to be surplus to requirements.
The university is currently looking for a £26million grant for aquaculture under the Stirling and Clackmannanshire CityRegion Deal Proposals to build on its existing research facilities.
The Waltersmuir site, which includes two reservoirs, covers a total of 14.74 acres.
A Stirling University spokesperson said this week: “The Institute of Aquaculture at the University of Stirling has set out an ambitious strategy for the future which addresses not only the needs of salmon production in Scotland, but also the challenges to food production globally.
“In doing so, the Institute has taken the opportunity to refocus its efforts on core activities of teaching and research.
“The Institute took the decision last year to cease the small scale commercial production of salmon for which Waltersmuir Reservoir was used.
“This reservoir is now surplus to requirements.”
Stirling Conservative MP Stephen Kerr has backed the institute’s plans and has stressed that the investment in the institute’s work is vital to ensure it remains at the forefront of research.
However, Stirling Greens have questioned the use of £26m of public money in the initiative.
They believe the cash would be better spent on generating employment and social mobility in the Stirling area.
The SAIC has also come under fire for its tenure of the historic Howietoun Fishery and Milholm Hatchery, both of which are Category-A listed structures.
Carron Valley residents have accused Stirling University of allowing the facilities, which it bought 40 years ago, to fall into rack and ruin.
Carron Valley Community Council said earlier this year: “The university is looking for £26m of public money (as part of the City Deal) for an aquaculture grant, but they cannot look after the historic aquaculture facilities that they already have.”
The university, however, responded that it was focusing on its nearby Buckieburn site, adding that it recognised the importance of Howietoun and was “considering all options” for the facility.