Works to end the long running practice of discharging raw sewage into Liscannor Bay are due to get underway in the coming months.
EPS have been appointed as the contractors to construct a new wastewater treatment plant. This plant will have capacity for a population of 1,150 with approximately 1.2km of sewer pipelines, a pump station and a storm water storage tank. Construction is expected to begin later this summer and last eighteen months.
Wastewater in the Liscannor area is currently treated by a septic tank system which discharges poorly treated effluent into the bay. This long-running practice has impacts on water quality, detracts from the amenity value of Liscannor and does not comply with EU regulations relating to the treatment of wastewater.
Caroline O’Reilly, Irish Water’s Programme Manager, said: “This is a major milestone for this project and for the village of Liscannor – one of the most popular destinations on the Wild Atlantic Way. The discharge of raw sewage into our precious marine environment is unacceptable and ending this practice is a top priority for Irish Water. The benefits of this work will be enormous – not only will it ensure cleaner water for swimmers, surfers and other recreational users, but it will also provide a platform for social and economic development in Liscannor”.
She added, “The environmental benefits will also be significant, ensuring that wastewater is treated in a sustainable way and returned safety to the environment. Cleaner waters will protect marine life, support biodiversity and enhance the amenity value of the area”.
Social, economic and environmental benefits for the village and wider Liscannor Bay area will follow, Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) predicted. “The longstanding practice of discharging of raw sewage into Liscannor Bay has for many years had a significant impact on biodiversity and tourism in Liscannor and neighbouring Lahinch. The ending of this practice will not only improve water quality and greatly reduce the likelihood of bathing bans being introduced at Lahinch.”
Deputy McNamara added, “I repeat my call on Irish Water to invest in locations where no public infrastructure exists and where a such infrastructure is desperately needed. The lack of adequate sewage infrastructure in Broadford, Carrigaholt and Doolin for example, needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency as the benefits for the communities in delivering such infrastructure would be wide ranging and long lasting”.
