Fife Community Strikes Deal For Scotland's First Community Reservoir

Ownership of a Fife reservoir has been transferred to the local community under the first 'right to buy' initiative of its kind in Scotland.

The people of Newburgh and surrounding area backed a proposal to take ownership of Lochmill Reservoir, which was formerly used by Scottish Water as the area's main source of drinking water.

With support from the Community Land Fund, locals will now take control of the reservoir, which is a haven for wildlife and popular with walkers and fishermen. 

The reservoir, constructed in 1951, has been acquired by the Newburgh Community Trust (NCT).

It is the first time that a Scottish Water reservoir has been transferred to community ownership. 

Steve Scott, Scottish Water's Community Team Manager for Fife, said: "Lochmill Reservoir served the community well for many years, providing Scottish Water customers with a source of high-quality drinking water. 

"While the reservoir is no longer used to supply the community, it is well loved by many locals who enjoy the peace and tranquillity it offers. 

"Reservoirs are wonderful places to enjoy the countryside and we would always remind visitors to stay safe and act responsibly around them.

"We're really pleased that we've reached an agreement for the Newburgh Community Trust to acquire the reservoir under right to buy legislation. Significantly, it's the first initiative of its kind involving a Scottish Water reservoir.

"It means the local community will be able to enjoy the area around the reservoir for many years to come."