Public Consultation Opens on Maritime Usage Licence for Greater Dublin Drainage Surveys

In September 2025, Uisce Éireann applied to the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) for a maritime usage licence under Section 117 of the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021. The licence is required to undertake a programme of marine environmental surveys to support ongoing site investigation work for the Greater Dublin Drainage (GDD) project. These surveys will help inform the design and delivery of new wastewater infrastructure for the Greater Dublin Area. As part of the application, Uisce Éireann has also submitted a Natura Impact Statement to support MARA’s assessment under the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011.

The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) has opened a public consultation on this licence application. MARA is now inviting written submissions from the public on the application and accompanying Natura Impact Statement.

• Application reference: MUL250013
• Deadline for submissions: 5:30pm on 23 February 2026
• How to make a submission:
  • Email: licence@mara.gov.ie (quote MUL250013)
  • Post: Licence Unit, Maritime Area Regulatory Authority,
    2nd Floor, Menapia House,
    Drinagh Business Park, Drinagh,
    Wexford, Y35 RF29

The full application and Natura Impact Statement can be viewed on MARA’s website at:
https://www.maritimeregulator.ie/application/mul250013

They are also available for inspection by appointment at MARA’s Wexford offices.

Next Steps

Once the consultation closes, MARA will undertake an Appropriate Assessment and, following this process, will decide to grant, part grant or refuse the licence application.