Martin Docherty-Hughes MP has launched a survey of local residents examining the impact of ‘whisky black’ on properties across West Dunbartonshire.
It follows concerns raised to the MP by residents about property exteriors – including homes, garden furniture and vehicles – being affected by a black fungus material.
The growth of the fungus, known as baudoinia compniacensis, is believed to be the result of the evaporation of ethanol during the whisky maturation process at local bonds and distilleries.
Mr Docherty-Hughes has written to hundreds of households across Clydebank, Dumbarton and Alexandria in an effort to shed light on the extent of the problem.
Households receiving the survey have been asked to complete and return the questionnaire to the MP for West Dunbartonshire by Friday 29th June.
Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said:
“Reports of black fungus affecting properties close to whisky maturation sites have been evident for many years now.
“It’s not a problem unique to West Dunbartonshire; however, local residents are understandably frustrated by the lack of progress in resolving the issue.
“I hold regular advice surgeries across West Dunbartonshire and one of the most common complaints I hear from constituents is the nuisance caused by ‘whisky black’.
“It affects the exterior of property including homes, garden furniture and vehicles and is notoriously difficult to clean off.
“I’ve been working closely with local residents to develop this survey which I hope will shed some light on the extent of the ‘whisky black’ problem.
“I’d be grateful if households receiving the survey could complete and return it at their earliest opportunity in to help demonstrate the impact it’s having on our communities.
“Any residents affected who haven’t received a survey can contact my office on martin.docherty.mp@parliament.uk or 0141 952 2988.”
