INTERIM and long-term projects to increase capacity at Clareabbey wastewater treatment plant are progressing.
Uisce Éireann has confirmed that planning is continuing for a major upgrade of the Clareabbey plant, with the project now at the Preliminary Business Case and Concept Design stage.
An interim upgrade to increase capacity of the existing treatment plant is scheduled for delivery within the next two years.
Current capacity issues at the plant has blocked one third of Ennis from future housing and commercial development.
Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) welcomed confirmation from Uisce Éireann regarding the interim and long-term projects. “I have received confirmation that an interim upgrade to increase the capacity of the existing treatment plant is progressing and is currently scheduled for delivery within the next two years, subject to the necessary design work, approvals and construction,” he stated.
Deputy Cooney added, “This is an important step as it will provide additional wastewater treatment capacity to support future housing and economic development while the larger long-term upgrade is being progressed.”
He said the long-term project is intended to meet the area’s future wastewater treatment needs, although, as a significant capital investment, it remains subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines process, statutory approvals and funding arrangements. “Increasing wastewater capacity at Clareabbey is one of the most important infrastructure priorities for County Clare. Without adequate capacity, it becomes much more difficult to deliver the homes, jobs and investment that communities need”.
“I also welcome confirmation that Uisce Éireann is progressing innovation measures to improve the performance of the existing treatment infrastructure while the interim upgrade is being delivered. Every effort to maximise existing capacity is important”. Deputy Cooney said it was encouraging to see progress on several fronts but stressed that momentum must be maintained. “While there is still a considerable amount of work ahead, it is positive to see that both the interim and long-term solutions are moving forward. I will continue to work closely with Uisce Éireann and the relevant Ministers to ensure these projects remain a priority and that progress is maintained at every stage.”
He added: “Clare needs the infrastructure to support sustainable growth, and I will continue pressing for the investment needed to deliver that”.
