Gondolin Land & Water was pleased to support the Scottish SPCA with the wastewater treatment system design for their wildlife centre in Fishcross, Alloa.
The previous septic tank and reed bed system at the site had reached the end of its operational life and was no longer suitable for the demands of a busy animal rescue facility. Our team was engaged to deliver a modern wastewater treatment system design for wildlife centres — one capable of safely managing flows from both human welfare facilities and high-strength animal washdown sources.
The SSPCA Centre at Fishcross, Alloa.
Designing a Compliant Wastewater Treatment System for a Wildlife Centre
We developed a bespoke, future-proof solution using a Submerged Aerated Filter (SAF) system supplied by Viltra. The system is designed for a maximum daily flow of 8m³, in full compliance with the site's existing SEPA CAR licence.
Key design features included:
- A multi-chamber SAF treatment plant
- Upgraded soakaway with a minimum surface area of 299m²
- Dedicated grease and oil traps upstream of the plant
- Controlled overnight release of seal and otter washdown effluent
- Full decommissioning of the previous septic tank and reed bed
Meeting SEPA Standards for Wastewater at Wildlife Rescue Facilities
All aspects of the wastewater treatment system design were developed in line with SEPA guidance, ensuring safe discharge to ground and protection of the local water environment. A detailed percolation test confirmed suitability of the soakaway area, and the system includes capacity for future monitoring and adjustment if needed.
Trial Pits - Conducting detailed percolation tests to confirm suitability of the soakaway area.
Supporting Wildlife Welfare Through Better Wastewater Infrastructure
The new system enables the SSPCA to continue their critical work in animal care and rehabilitation with confidence that their wastewater treatment infrastructure is safe, reliable and future-proof.
This project demonstrates Gondolin’s ability to deliver specialist wastewater treatment system design for wildlife centres, where standard domestic assumptions may not apply due to the strength and nature of effluent.
Experienced in Providing Wastewater Treatment System Designs
Gondolin Land & Water provides tailored solutions for wildlife rescue facilities, rural properties, and environmentally sensitive developments. Our services include:
- Wastewater treatment system design
- SuDS and soakaway sizing
- Drainage strategy and flood risk assessments
Supporting the SSPCA isn’t our only involvement with wildlife charities — we’ve also worked with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) on numerous wastewater and drainage projects across Scotland. We’re proud to support organisations like these in their efforts to protect wildlife and the environment.
Contact us to discuss your requirements or explore our services for more information.
