Phased works progressing at Drogheda Wastewater Treatment Plant

10 May 2022

Uisce Éireann is continuing to carry out works at Drogheda wastewater treatment plant and is committed to resolving any potential odour issues arising from the wastewater plant or network. Uisce Éireann is aware of complaints of odour in the vicinity of the plant which can arise for a variety of reasons, such as rainfall, which impacts the dilution effect in a combined sewer network; temperature, which can naturally give rise to odour issues; the extent of industrial loading and illegal dumping of waste into the sewer network and increased agricultural activity in the area.

Works to reduce the risk of odours that have already been completed at Drogheda wastewater treatment plant include; works to the odour control units; works to three primary settlement tanks and two aeration tanks and the installation of additional treatment at the East Meath pumping station that conveys wastewater to the plant to reduce the potential for septicity of the wastewater. Furthermore, a programme of network jetting is being delivered on an ongoing basis to clear general blockages in the pipe network that could give rise to odours.

In addition, Uisce Éireann is progressing with plans to replace key pieces of infrastructure at the site, such as the anaerobic digesters, on a phased basis over the next two years. The first phase of the works is scheduled to start later this year and along, with a suite of measures being implemented at the plant and on the network, will help to minimise potential odour sources.

Speaking about the ongoing and planned works at the plant, Redmond Burke, Uisce Éireann said, “Uisce Éireann is committed to resolving any potential odour issues at the plant and in the network and we are continuing to work closely with EPS Limited who operate the plant on our behalf and Louth County Council who manage the network on our behalf. The replacement of the anaerobic digester at the site represents a significant investment in the continued upgrade of the plant. We will keep the community informed of updates regarding Drogheda wastewater treatment plant and network through engagement with local media, regular Councillor Clinics and directly with customers who contact our contact centre.”

Uisce Éireann continues to work at this time, with our local authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of drinking water and wastewater services.

Customers should continue to report any issues directly to our call centre which operates 24/7 on 1800 278 278 or by email to operations@water.ie. Real time reporting allows for the investigation of the reported odour as close to the time of the incident as possible.