Uisce Éireann reaches significant milestone on multi-million-euro upgrade of Kenmare Wastewater Treatment Plant

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

The ‘Little Nest’ on the Wild Atlantic Way in county Kerry is set to thrive as Uisce Éireann continues to progress with a major upgrade of the Kenmare Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will further protect the environment and support the long-term sustainable growth of the region.

The project which represents a €25m investment by Uisce Éireann has reached a major milestone with over 70% of the works now complete.  Construction works are continuing in line with the programme, with the installation of key equipment that will process and treat the wastewater and early commissioning works now underway. The project will provide a significant upgrade to the town’s wastewater infrastructure, including a new pumping station at Cromwell’s Bridge and an expanded wastewater treatment plant with increased capacity to support future growth. In the coming weeks, the transfer of flows from the existing plant to part of the new plant is due to commence, marking a key milestone in the delivery of this vital project.

Speaking on the project, Darran O’Leary, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, said: “Kenmare Wastewater Treatment Plant is a crucial piece of infrastructure for Kerry and will benefit the county for decades to come. We are delighted with the progress made so far on this essential project 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. We would like to thank the local community for their continued support and patience as we move toward completing this vital project.”

This project which is on track for completion in early 2026 will ensure environmental compliance with national and EU regulations and protect water quality in the River Finnihy.

Glanua Ltd are carrying out the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann.  

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.

For more information about these works, please visit our dedicated project webpage at Kenmare Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade.