Major investment in wastewater infrastructure planned for Carlow Town

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

Uisce Éireann is progressing plans to carry out a major upgrade of the Carlow (Mortarstown) Wastewater Treatment Plant. The proposed project will enable future growth and development in Carlow town and surrounding areas, while also improving water quality in the River Barrow, benefitting the environment, ecology, sporting, and tourism activities.

The project proposes that the existing capacity at the plant be increased from the current population equivalent (pe) of 38,000 to 58,000, to meet anticipated growth in the region and future demands of the town. In addition, upgrades to the treatment process are required to ensure continued environmental compliance and improve water quality in the River Barrow.

Improvements to the wastewater pumping station at Kilkenny Road and the construction of a new pumping station next to the existing Mortarstown Wastewater Treatment Plant site are also proposed. These two stations will be linked by a new tunnelled sewer.

Paul Fallon, Wastewater Portfolio Delivery Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: ‘The launch of this project marks a major milestone in supporting the town of Carlow and surrounding areas to grow and thrive through the delivery of essential wastewater infrastructure, while also protecting the environment and improving water quality in the River Barrow. We look forward to engaging with the local community to provide them with more information about this significant planned investment over the coming weeks.”

A non-statutory consultation for the Carlow (Mortarstown) Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade will be launched in the coming weeks. The consultation will provide all stakeholders with an opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed upgrade works in advance of Uisce Éireann’s submission of the planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála.

Further information on the project and upcoming public information event, as well as details on how to engage with us about the project, will be made available to the public in the coming weeks.

Uisce Éireann remains committed to delivering infrastructure that meets the needs of growing communities while protecting the environment and ensuring long-term resilience.

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.