Work begins on Macroom wastewater treatment plant

WORKS have commenced on the upgrade of the Macroom wastewater treatment plant, a project which, when complete, “is set to benefit Co Cork for decades to come”.

Once operational, Uisce Éireann said the modernised wastewater treatment plant “will ensure environmental compliance with national and EU regulations, protect water quality in the River Sullane, and will also support the long-term sustainable growth and development of Macroom”.

Speaking about the project, Uisce Éireann’s infrastructure delivery programme manager, Darran O’Leary, described the wastewater treatment plant as a “crucial piece of infrastructure” for the region.

“Once the upgrade works have been completed, we will be able to ensure that we can accommodate future growth while protecting the environment,” he said.

Mr O’Leary said the project will also incorporate renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions by incorporating a solar array to supply over 10% of the site’s electricity needs.

“The works will be carried out by Glanua and will take about two years to complete with the project set to benefit Co Cork for decades to come. We would like to thank the local community for their support and co-operation as we carry out this work,” he added.

The upgrade works will involve decommissioning of the existing plant and its associated structures, construction of a new facility in Macroom to serve a population equivalent of 7,700, new inlet works, stormwater tank, biological treatment process, control building, and a solar panel farm.

Separately, Uisce Éireann reminded customers supplied by the Macroom public water supply that the boil water notice issued on November 1 remains in place.

This notice impacts approximately 4,237 customers in Macroom town, Codrum, Masseytown, Kilnagurteen, Coolehane, Coolcower, Macloneigh, Carrigadrohid, and surrounding areas.

The notice, Uisce Éireann said, was issued due to a combination of adverse weather and operational issues, resulting in elevated levels of turbidity at Macroom water treatment plant.

“I want to acknowledge the impact this notice is having in Macroom,” said Uisce Éireann’s water operations lead for Cork County, Niall O’Riordan.

“Public health is our number one priority, and the notice was issued to protect all of our customers in the area. We will continue working hard and aim to lift the notice as soon as it is safe to do so.”