Cork communities urged to have their say as consultation enters final week

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

Stakeholders and members of the public have a week left to share their views on Uisce Éireann’s draft Cork Wastewater Strategy, with the public consultation closing on 19 March 2026.

Launched in January, the draft strategy sets out a long term plan for how wastewater will be collected and treated across the Cork Metropolitan Area (CMA). It aims to deliver a sustainable wastewater plan that will protect public health, safeguard the environment, and facilitate growth out to 2080.  

Ted O’Reilly, Asset Planning Senior Manager with Uisce Eireann said: “This strategy is about planning for Cork’s future – for the people who live and work here. This is a significant, long-term plan and the first-time wastewater needs have been examined at this scale. By looking ahead to 2080, Uisce Éireann is proactively identifying the needs of the Cork Metropolitan Area, and its communities and we welcome views and submissions from all interested stakeholders.”

“This plan comes at a critical juncture; the Cork Metropolitan Area has experienced significant growth in recent years, and this is expected to continue. The National Planning Framework 2040 projects that Cork could see population growth of 50% to 60% by 2040. By taking a long term, evidence based approach, we can ensure the area has the capacity and resilience it needs to support growing communities and increased demand for new serviced land for housing, commercial developments, and industry.” 

As part of the consultation, Uisce Éireann has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders, including environmental bodies, elected representatives and public organisations. An in-person information event and a webinar took place to explain the proposals for future development and encourage public feedback. 

In developing the draft Cork Wastewater Strategy, Uisce Éireann has also prepared key environmental reports including a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS). Feedback is welcomed on all documents published as part of the consultation.

How to make a submission
Members of the public and interested stakeholders can send their submissions to Uisce Éireann by email or post or submit online by 19 March 2026: 
Email: CWS@water.ie      
Post: Cork Wastewater Strategy, Uisce Éireann, PO Box 860, South City Delivery Office, Cork City  
Online: https://consult.water.ie/

Following the close of this consultation, all feedback will be reviewed and considered in development of the final Cork Wastewater Strategy. The final strategy will be published later in 2026.    

The study area under consideration comprises the Cork Metropolitan Area and the Cork Harbour and Cork Outer Harbour Water Framework Directive waterbodies.