IRISH Water has announced that they will begin developing wastewater infrastructure in three areas of Donegal, Burtonport, Kerrykeel and Kilcar where sewage is currently going untreated.
The move follows last week’s damning report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which revealed untreated sewage is being pumped into waterways in these areas.
The utility company has now appointed engineering service providers to undertake detailed design, planning and procurement services of the wastewater infrastructure requirements for these areas.
A Spokesperson for Irish Water said:
“These projects will ensure that there is an adequate treatment of wastewater, for now and into the future, as well as protecting the environment. It is envisaged that planning, design and construction will take approximately 3 to 4 years and will be undertaken between 2017 and 2021. Third party surveys and landowner engagement have commenced or will commence shortly.”
Planning applications for the projects are expected to be submitted to Donegal County Council in early 2018.
Nationally Irish Water is progressing plans to address the discharge of untreated wastewater across 44 urban areas.
In these areas the untreated sewerage is being discharged into water either directly from sewer network outfalls or by septic holding tanks where the level of treatment provided is insufficient.