Nenagh Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade to deliver capacity for the equivalent of 3,000 new homes and safeguard the local environment

In a watershed moment for Nenagh, Uisce Éireann, today marked the commencement of works on a complete upgrade of Nenagh Wastewater Treatment plan. The €49 million, once in a generation project will deliver a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant at the heart of the town, paving the way for growth and future investment across the region while also safeguarding the local environment.   

Celebrating the commencement of the transformative works, the project team were joined in Nenagh today by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, John Carroll, Chief Executive of Tipperary County Council, Sinéad Carr, Trish Markey representing County Tipperary Chamber along with local councillors and TDs. The project is a substantial demonstration of commitment and investment by Uisce Éireann in Nenagh and is expected to have a positive impact on the region for years to come.  

They explained how the once in a generation investment will meet the needs of today’s community while unlocking the door to increased wastewater capacity to deliver housing and enable sustainable growth across the region.      

The current wastewater treatment plant which was originally built in the 1980’s, will be reimagined – delivering state of the art infrastructure and cutting-edge technology that will secure full compliance with Irish and EU environmental legislation. It will enhance the quality of the River Nenagh’s receiving waters, safeguarding the local environment.     

Speaking on site, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne T.D., welcomed the investment;     

“Investment in the town of Nenagh and surrounding areas of North Tipperary is essential. As Minister for Housing, I drove on with major investment in wastewater infrastructure, as it is a key enabler of the area’s development including delivery of new homes.    

“As a Government we have invested record levels in much-needed wastewater infrastructure, which will also support housing delivery in North Tipperary, which we know we need to see more of. Crucially, this type of investment reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding the environment for future generations while at the same time unlocking services for Nenagh and the surrounds.”    

Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, John Carroll, echoed the sentiments;     

“This project is also about protecting the Nenagh River, safeguarding wildlife, and making sure our town can grow in a way that is sustainable and respectful of the environment. Today marks an important milestone for Nenagh and for future generations.”    

For Maria O’Dwyer, Infrastructure Delivery Director, at Uisce Éireann and a native of Tipperary it was a proud day.     
  
“This project represents a powerful investment in Nenagh’s future. As this region continues to expand, our wastewater infrastructure must rise to meet that momentum.  This critical investment will not only safeguard the local environment but will unlock essential capacity to support the building of new homes. It is a vital step in ensuring Nenagh can continue to thrive while protecting its natural environment,” she said.   

“We are committed to delivering for communities across Tipperary and this project is part of our ongoing multimillion euro investment in wastewater infrastructure across the county, including recently completed projects in Newport, Ballina, and Cahir; as well as the upgrade underway at Fethard and in Kilsheelan where planning permission was recently granted. This is critical to facilitate housing and growth while protecting our environment”.    

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water and enhancing the environment.