€34m upgrade in Mallow to bring big benefits

Uisce Éireann has completed upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant and sewer network in Mallow. The upgrade represents a €34m investment in wastewater infrastructure.

According to Uisce Eireann, the implementation of this infrastructure will eradicate sewer overflows and contribute to a significant improvement in the water quality of the River Blackwater.

Speaking at a completion event held at Mallow Wastewater Treatment Plant, Chief Operations Officer with Uisce Éireann, Eamon Gallen said that he wanted to “thank the local community for their patience”.

“Replacing sewer networks requires a lot of co-ordination and road closures, but this was a vital step to deliver the upgraded wastewater infrastructure that is now in place,” he said. “We are proud to have delivered these two important projects for the people of Mallow.”

Uisce Éireann first began work on the original WWTP in early 2021. The project also involved the construction of a new pumping station and stormwater holding tank at Mallow Bridge. A separate contract to upgrade the wastewater commenced in April 2021 and was completed in January 2023.

Uisce Éireann say that the overall investment of €34m in these two projects will provide additional capacity in the wastewater network and at the wastewater treatment plant to cater for current and future development and housing in the Mallow area, and will also improve water quality in the River Blackwater through the provision of an enhanced wastewater treatment plant and the removal of eight combined storm overflows.

Director and Treasurer of Mallow Chamber of Commerce, Willie John O’Flynn welcomed the positive impact for business saying: “The provision of adequate wastewater services is an integral factor for local business, particularly for our multinationals, retail and hospitality sectors. As Mallow continues to develop and expand, local economic growth will be underpinned by local investment in infrastructure such as this which allows our communities and businesses expand and thrive.”