Edenderry and Rhode projects part of "record" Uisce Éireann wastewater investment

Uisce Éireann has said communities in Offaly will benefit from its record levels of spending on wastewater infrastructure.

Local projects expected to take place include an upgrade to the Edenderry wastewater treatment plant in order to increase capacity to enhance growth and development in the town.

Further upgrades are also planned for Rhode, under the Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme. Uisce Éireann said these projects "will be progressed through the current and future investment cycles, subject to approval and planning".

Last year saw the highest annual investment in wastewater to date of over €450 million, and Uisce Éireann said it was continuing to make progress in priority areas such as locations where there is raw sewage entering the rivers, lakes and the sea.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has acknowledged that the building, repair and upgrading of Ireland's wastewater treatment plants and sewer network will require a multi-billion-euro investment programme over many years.

Brian Sheehan, Uisce Éireann’s Head of Infrastructure Delivery, said: "Ending raw sewage discharges and improving wastewater treatment for communities across the country are priorities for Uisce Éireann.

"We are making huge strides in addressing these issues and we are now seeing real and tangible benefits from the unprecedented level of investment in this essential infrastructure.

"To date over 70% of raw sewage discharges nationwide have been eliminated and we are on track to end the majority by 2025. Our targeted programme of investment in existing wastewater plants and networks is also helping to protect the environment and enhance water quality.

"The timely delivery of this infrastructure and these services is a critical component in supporting sustainable social and economic development. Last year we invested over €1bn in water and wastewater projects, and we will need to maintain this level of funding in the years to come.

"It will also be necessary to address existing issues in our planning and approvals system so that large scale critical infrastructure can progress within a reasonable timeframe," said Mr Sheehan.