Uisce Eireann Claim Ongoing Work Will Address Raw Sewage Discharge In Wicklow

Responding to an EPA report that singled out Arklow and Aughrim in South Wicklow, Uisce Eireann says sewage discharges have been eliminated in 41 of 50 areas nationwide.

The water utility also says 94% of treatment plants are now in line with the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive.

The Environmental Protection Agency also says Uisce Eireann's delays in upgrades are having a negative impact on rivers and coastal waters.

In response the utility indicates the €139m Arklow Sewerage Scheme is nearing completion.

Works to the sewer network (along the North and South Quays) are complete and Uisce Éireann has recently begun the testing of new the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The plant is expected to be fully operational by 2025 at which time the treated wastewater will be safely discharged to the Irish Sea via the newly constructed long sea outfall pipe.

Uisce Éireann have also commenced works to upgrade the wastewater infrastructure in Avoca and end the unacceptable practice of discharging raw sewerage into the Avoca River.

This project involves the construction of a new Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will serve a population equivalent of 1,900. 

The Blessington Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Project was completed in 2023.

This project has upgraded the treatment processes at the existing wastewater treatment plant in Blessington - improving its capacity and allowing for future social and economic growth in the area.

These upgrade works have also ensured compliance with national and EU legislation.