Carlow (Mortarstown) Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade

Uisce Éireann (UÉ) is progressing plans to upgrade the wastewater infrastructure for Carlow Town and surrounding areas. The proposed project will enable future growth and development in the region, 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 Mortarstown Wastewater Treatment 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 newly constructed tunnel. 
 

Upon completion the project will:
 

• Enable future growth and development in the community and cater for an expected increase in population in the area.
• Enhance Carlow’s amenity value by providing a cleaner environment and act as a platform for social and economic development.
• Improve water quality in the River Barrow, benefitting the environment, ecology, sporting and tourism activities.
• Ensure that wastewater will be treated in accordance with European Union Urban Wastewater Treatment Directives and Environmental Protection Agency wastewater discharge licensing.

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 make a submission, 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.