Improvements continue throughout 2021 at Sligo’s wastewater treatment plants

22 December 2021

Uisce Éireann has recently invested approximately €26 million in upgrading wastewater treatment plants throughout Sligo

As 2021 draws to a close, Uisce Éireann is proud to announce the completion of a further two wastewater treatment plant upgrades to support development in Co Sligo. 

Uisce Éireann has recently invested approximately €26 million in upgrading wastewater treatment plants throughout Sligo including Grange, Strandhill, Tubbercurry, Ballinafad and most recently at Collooney and Ballymote.  

Not only will this latest investment provide additional capacity at Collooney and Ballymote wastewater treatment plants, but it will also help safeguard the Owenmore River, which is renowned home for salmon and trout spawning and nursery habitats and forms part of the Unshin Special Area of Conservation. 

Working in partnership with Sligo County Council, this project provides the necessary infrastructure required to treat wastewater to the highest standards required ensuring compliance with European and Irish wastewater treatment legislation. 

Outlining the benefits of the works, Uisce Éireann’s Colm Claffey, Regional Delivery Lead explains how the completion of this project, is another step in improving Sligo’s wastewater treatment infrastructure.

“The importance of upgrading the wastewater treatment facilities at Collooney and Ballymote cannot be underestimated. These works will significantly increase the amount of wastewater that can now be treated at these locations, in line with legislation while supporting economic, social development and tourism in the area. 

“This overall investment will ensure that current and future wastewater treatment demand can be achieved as Collooney and Ballymote continues to grow, while protecting the Owenmore River. The upgraded plants have the capacity to treat wastewater for approximately 3,100 population equivalent (PE) in Collooney and 3,500 PE in Ballymote in compliance with EU Directives and wastewater regulations.”

Uisce Éireann is responsible for the delivery of all public water and wastewater services in Ireland. We are committed to continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support the growth needed in housing and across our economy, while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies.