Wedoany.com Report on Mar 17th, A €7 million upgrade project for wastewater treatment infrastructure has been launched in the areas of Kilcoole and Newtownmountkennedy in North County Wicklow, Ireland. The project aims to enhance the capacity of the existing wastewater treatment network to meet anticipated local population growth and economic development needs, while also supporting future housing construction.

The works primarily involve the refurbishment of two wastewater pumping stations to enhance network resilience and accommodate the long-term development of the Kilcoole and Newtownmountkennedy catchment areas. Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, welcomed the commencement of this critical work.

James Browne TD stated: "The launch of this project is very welcome news for the communities of Kilcoole and Newtownmountkennedy. Improvements in wastewater network capacity will deliver real benefits and provide the necessary infrastructure for existing and new developments in the area, including much-needed new housing.

"The Government's new housing plan, 'Housing for All, Building Communities', will see the State taking a greater role in all aspects of housing delivery, including continued investment in public water services. More efficient planning and delivery of critical infrastructure like these pumping stations will support and accelerate housing delivery in Wicklow, along with associated amenities and services."

Ciaran Ryan, Project Manager at Irish Water, said: "This project is part of our commitment to delivering the necessary wastewater services to support sustainable housing and economic development in Wicklow communities. By investing in wastewater infrastructure, we are enabling future growth while safeguarding essential services for current and future generations."

Coffey Construction will carry out the works on behalf of Irish Water, with completion expected by mid-2027. This project falls under Irish Water's Growth and Development Programme, a national investment scheme designed to expand water and wastewater infrastructure capacity to support social and economic progress, including securing essential housing supply.