Uisce Éireann progress €33 million wastewater treatment plant upgrade in Virginia

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Approximately 6,000 people in Co Cavan are due to reap the benefits of a cleaner, more sustainable future and long-term economic growth with news that eagerly-awaited major upgrade works have begun on the Virginia Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Cavan County Council, are investing €33 million in the upgrading project, which will benefit homes and businesses in Virginia by ensuring that all wastewater is treated appropriately.

Once completed, the project will increase the capacity of the sewer network to future-proof against projected population growth and will enable and support the long-term social and economic development of Virginia and the surrounding areas.

The upgraded treatment plant will ensure the treatment of wastewater is fully compliant with EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directives and Wastewater Discharge Licence Emission Limit Values, and will eliminate all non-compliant combined sewer overflows within the area.

The improvements will also lead to a cleaner environment and enhance Virginia’s amenity value, while also safeguarding the water quality of the nearby Lough Ramor.

Uisce Éireann Portfolio Manager, Patrick Greene, said the modernisation works will bring “real advantages to Virginia and the environment, which will undoubtedly foster future community growth.”

“The Virginia Wastewater Treatment Plant is a crucial piece of infrastructure for Cavan and once the upgrade works have been completed, we will be able to ensure that we can accommodate future growth and protect the environment in a more efficient way,” said Patrick.

“The project reflects Uisce Éireann’s commitment to the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure in order to support local communities across Cavan.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the community of Virginia for their ongoing support and patience throughout the delivery of this vital wastewater upgrade for the community,” Patrick continued.

The works will include a major upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant, pumping station, existing storm tanks and the installation of new rising mains.

Veolia Water is carrying out these works on behalf of Uisce Éireann. The works which commenced this month are due to be completed in late 2026.

Uisce Éireann is responsible for the delivery of all public water and wastewater services in Ireland. We are committed to continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support the growth needed in housing and across our economy, while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies.