en.Wedoany.com Reported - Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) will commence a £8 million upgrade project at Downpatrick Wastewater Treatment Works (Downpatrick WwTW) this summer, aimed at updating the facility to meet current environmental standards.

The project has received planning permission and will be carried out in two phases. The initial £8 million upgrade will ensure the treatment works complies with discharge regulations and lays the groundwork for subsequent phases to support local economic development.

Martin Armstrong, Senior Project Manager at NI Water, explained that the Downpatrick WwTW, located near Belfast Road, was built in 1995 and expanded in 2010 to accommodate population growth. He noted that some aging equipment on site urgently needs replacement to maintain operational efficiency and meet environmental discharge permit requirements. Plans include further expansion within the existing site to accommodate future economic growth.

The utility's contractor, BSG Civil Engineering, will mobilize on site in July to set up a construction compound on the northern side of the site, followed by the two-phase upgrade. The first phase will replace critical components nearing the end of their service life, involving civil and mechanical/electrical works, and is scheduled for completion within two years. The treatment works will remain operational throughout construction, with extensive excavation in the initial stages. The second phase will increase the treatment capacity to support future development in the Downpatrick area, but implementation depends on funding availability.

The project will enhance protection of the Quoile River and Strangford Lough, delivering environmental benefits. The second-phase expansion (subject to funding) will help support economic and population growth in Downpatrick.