Vital boost for Castlemagner with €13.4 million investment to support housing and local growth in North Cork

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

Uisce Éireann is continuing its national programme of targeted investment to support housing delivery and sustainable development in communities across Ireland. As part of this commitment, works are starting on a new wastewater treatment plant in Castlemagner, County Cork - a milestone project for the village and wider North Cork area, backed by a €13.4 million investment.

This upgrade will bring major benefits to the heritage-rich village, substantially increasing wastewater treatment capacity and delivering enhanced environmental protection. This gives the community a strong foundation to grow and thrive, supporting local housing, services, and economic opportunities. By replacing ageing wastewater infrastructure, that dates back to the 1950s, with a modern wastewater treatment plant capable of handling ten times more volume, the new plant will increase treatment capacity from 50 to 500 population equivalent (PE). 

James Browne T.D., Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage welcomed the commencement of this important rural infrastructure project: “Investing in modern, resilient wastewater infrastructure is essential to support vibrant, thriving rural communities. The increased treatment capacity in Castlemagner will underpin future housing delivery in the area in the context in our new Housing Action Plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities, and ensure the village can grow in a planned, sustainable way.”

The project includes the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant, a new stormwater storage system, and an upgraded incoming sewer network designed to reduce flood risk during heavy rainfall. A new outfall will safely discharge fully treated effluent to the Lisduggan North Stream, ensuring environmental compliance and improved water quality downstream.To enhance sustainability, the project will incorporate innovative green solutions, including sustainable sludge drying reed beds to reduce energy use and transport emissions, and ground mounted solar panels to generate clean, renewable power on site. These measures will reduce reliance on fossil fuels, support biodiversity, and make the new wastewater treatment plant more resource-efficient and resilient.

Speaking about the project, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, Darran O’Leary said: “This investment is a vital for Castlemagner. By increasing capacity and integrating sustainable technologies, we are ensuring the village has modern wastewater infrastructure that protects local waterways and supports future development. This project will deliver long term benefits for residents and businesses alike.” 

The project is being delivered by Glanua Ireland Ltd. on behalf of Uisce Éireann, with works scheduled commencing in February 2026 and completion expected in early 2028. 

Further updates and information can be found at our Castlemagner Wastewater Treatment Plant page.

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment.