It is hoped the Lerwick work will help the coastline

Work is getting under way in the Shetland town this week to assess the system.

The refurbishement work forms a key part of a project to upgrade Lerwick's waste water treatment works.

Scottish Water said the work was "vital" to bring the system up to required standards.

Any pipes which have sea water leaking into them will have to be corrected.

Road digging

Spokesman Andy Barnett said: "At this stage it is difficult to know how long we will be working in Lerwick but we will endeavour to keep any disruption to a minimum.

"We have spoken to the council roads department and will liaise with them if we need to dig up any sections of roads.

"This work is vital if we are to bring Lerwick's sewers up to scratch and ensure that the improved process at the waste water treatment works can function.

"Sea water kills off the bacteria that will be used to digest sewage to a higher standard."