Uisce Éireann eliminates the discharge of untreated wastewater into the River Lee

20 March 2023

Uisce Éireann and Cork County Council have completed construction on the Inchigeelagh Sewerage Scheme, ending the discharge of untreated wastewater into the River Lee. 

The €6.8m investment, delivered on time and under budget, involved the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant; a new below-ground wastewater pumping station; approximately 315m of new rising main to transport untreated wastewater from the pumping station to the new wastewater treatment plant; approximately 110m of gravity sewer to transport untreated wastewater from Cois Na Coillte to the wastewater treatment plant; and a 45m long outfall pipeline to safely discharge treated wastewater into the River Lee.

Construction began at the end of 2021 with Glan Agua delivering the project, on behalf of Uisce Éireann, in 14 months.

Speaking about the project, Anthony Kavanagh, Wastewater Regional Delivery Lead with Uisce Éireann said “We are delighted to have delivered this important project on behalf of the local community in Inchigeelagh, and the people of Cork.

“The Inchigeelagh Sewerage Scheme has ended the discharge of untreated wastewater into the River Lee. It will improve water quality in the River Lee and protect recreational waters for swimming, fishing, boating, and sightseeing; as well as protecting the integrity of the local environment. In addition to enhancing local amenities, the new wastewater infrastructure, which has been sized to accommodate future population growth, will provide a platform for social and economic development.

Commenting on the completion of the project, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Danny Collins said, “Cork County Council welcomes the completion of this crucial project which was delivered by Uisce Éireann with the support of Cork County Council’s Capital Team. This new Wastewater treatment Plant will help to preserve the wonderful amenity of the River Lee and its hinterland, while allowing for sustainable development of the thriving community in Inchigeelagh.”

In Cork, Uisce Éireann have completed works in Castletownbere and Inchigeelagh with  works in Whitegate-Aghada and Castletownshend underway. Works in Ballycotton are planned to commence in April 2023.