Wastewater programme promises cleaner waters for Cork’s coast
A major project ending the discharge of collected untreated wastewater into a beautiful East Cork town was recently completed.
The finish of the €16.3 million Ballycotton Sewerage Scheme is a significant environmental milestone for the coastal village and Ballycotton Bay.
The upgrade completes a decade-long €235 million countywide wastewater upgrade programme.
Approximately €235 million has been invested in twelve locations countywide to eliminate raw sewage discharges, delivering lasting environmental benefits and supporting sustainable growth.
The new infrastructure is already delivering benefits for Ballycotton and its surrounding coastal waters, enhancing water quality and amenity value.
Designed to support future needs, it also provides capacity for new homes and local enterprise, ensuring the village can grow sustainably while safeguarding its renowned coastal setting.
Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD joined the Uisce Éireann project team, local TDs, councillors and members of the community to officially open the wastewater treatment plant last Friday.
Speaking at the event, he said: “I am delighted to be here today to celebrate this landmark environmental achievement in Ballycotton and across Cork. We are seeing the benefit of our investment in critical infrastructure that is delivering immediate and lasting benefits for coastal communities across the county.
“Investment in wastewater infrastructure plays a vital role in enhancing water quality, protecting Cork’s coastline, safeguarding marine habitats, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining the fishing, recreation and tourism activities that coastal communities rely on. It’s essential that we ensure that villages and towns across Cork are well positioned for sustainable growth into the future,” the TD added.
“The Government recognises the vital role of strategic infrastructure investment in protecting and enhancing the environment while also meeting the country’s demand for housing and that is why the Government will be investing a further €12 billion in our water and wastewater infrastructure in the coming years.”
Patrick Greene, Uisce Éireann’s Portfolio Manager, said: “Today marks an important milestone for the people of Ballycotton and the wider area and I want to acknowledge the support and cooperation of the community throughout the construction of this essential project. Prior to the project, the equivalent of over 860 wheelie bins of untreated wastewater was discharged directly into Ballycotton Bay each
day.
“This critical investment will not only safeguard the local environment but will unlock capacity to support the building of new homes. It is a vital step in ensuring that Ballycotton can continue to thrive while protecting its natural environment.”
Minister O’Sullivan was joined by Cathaoirleach of East Cork Municipal District, Cllr Rory Cocking (Fine Gael), who echoed the local benefit.
“With the completion of Ballycotton today and the nearby new Whitegate-Aghada Sewerage Scheme also being brought into trial operations, this is a very positive day for East Cork. Cleaner coastal waters enhance the amenity value of the region for swimming, fishing, boating and tourism, supporting local communities to grow and thrive in a sustainable way now and into the future,” he added.
The Cork county
projects to end raw sewage discharges
are:
1. Ballycotton
2. Whitegate-Aghada
3. Inchigeelagh
4. Castletownshend
5. Castletownbere
6. Youghal
7. Kilmacsimon
8. Courtmacsherry-Timoleague
9. Cobh
10. Ringaskiddy-Crosshaven-Carrigaline
11. Ringaskiddy Village
12. Passage West-Monkstown