Investment in Waterford Wastewater Plant confirmed by Irish Water

Following months of community campaigning Bunmahon Wastewater Treatment Plant is to be upgraded as part of the next capital investment plan, it has been confirmed by Irish Water.

Reports by the EPA and Waterford City and County Council had long flagged the poor quality of water and a local campaign had raised over 600 signatures in support of public investment.

In correspondence with MEP for Ireland South Grace O'Sullivan this week, Irish Water has confirmed that Bonmahon Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) will be included in the development of the next capital investment plan, with stage 1 planning commencing in 2023 and the design stage well advanced by 2024.

This will be the first major investment in the water quality of Bonmahon in half a century since the plant was first built.

The existing wastewater system is 50 years old, when it catered for only 120 people rather than more than 500 people who visit the area at the height of summer. Temporary improvements were put in place following a campaign led by local Jamie Power, however overcapacity issues have meant that a significant upgrade by Irish Water is needed to end the discharge of raw sewage into the environment.

Reacting to the news, MEP O'Sullivan noted that the poor water treatment network had a serious impact on the rural village which sits in the UNESCO designated Geopark.

"This is the first time we have heard confirmation that an upgrade of the WWTP will be included in the next capital investment plan. Around the country we have begun a massive campaign of improving wastewater quality, but as is the case in Bonmahon, it takes a village to get it off the ground. I look forward to works beginning as soon as possible" she said.

Marc O Cathaisigh TD added: "Credit is due to the work of community representatives in Bunmahon for bringing the issue to our attention and keeping it at the top of our agenda. This will bring waste water services in Bunmahon up to the standard needed for current demand, and also allow for future development within the community. I'm glad to have played a small part in what was a very effective grassroots campaign."

Tom Keith, Local Area Representative for the Comeragh District said: "This is a testament to the hard work of the local group of concerned residents, led by Jamie Power who made their case for inclusion with great enthusiasm and eloquence. This is a great example of the teamwork of local, national and European representatives working together. I hope to see the work from Waterford City and County Council to improve the existing infrastructure continue while we are waiting for this project to start. "