Key contract signed for critical upgrade to wastewater infrastructure in Avoca

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

We are delighted to announce the signing of a new construction contract that will deliver critical upgrades to the wastewater infrastructure in Avoca, Co. Wicklow. This multi-million-euro investment will see the construction of a new wastewater plant in this picturesque village of the Garden County.

Working in partnership with Wicklow County Council, Uisce Éireann is committed to ending the unacceptable practice of untreated wastewater being discharged into the Avoca River. 

The Avoca Sewerage Scheme will deliver the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant which will bring a host of benefits to Avoca including significantly improving the water quality of the Avoca River; better health and integrity of the environment and will ensure there is capacity available for future social and economic growth in the area. The new wastewater treatment plant will also enhance biodiversity at the site through habitat creation.

Ward and Burke Construction Ltd. have been awarded the construction contract and will deliver the project on behalf of Uisce Éireann. Construction is due to begin in the coming months and is set to be completed in 2026. 

Commenting on the benefits of this vital infrastructure for the community, Conor Delaney, Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann, said: 

“We are delighted to be progressing this significant project for the local community in Avoca. This project will end the current practice of discharging untreated wastewater into the Avoca River, thereby improving water quality and protecting marine life. The project reflects Uisce Éireann’s ongoing commitment to the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure to support growth in local communities across County Wicklow as the new plant has been sized to accommodate an increase in the local population.” 

Conor added, “This project showcases Uisce Éireann’s drive for innovation and commitment to sustainability. Constructing new reed beds will dewater treated sludge using solar evaporation, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution for the long-term treatment of sludge from wastewater.”

This project in Avoca is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Wicklow County Council to protect our environment and support the local community to thrive. In Arklow, works are ongoing to construct a new wastewater treatment plant at North Quay, Ferrybank, which when complete in 2025 will also eliminate the discharge of raw sewage into the Avoca River.

We will endeavour to keep the local community and stakeholders updated as this project progresses. For more information about this project, please visit the project page.