O’Shea Welcomes Commencement of €5.5 Million Upgrade at Ballydesmond Wastewater Treatment Plant

Cork North West TD says major investment will improve wastewater treatment, strengthen environmental compliance and provide additional capacity for the future growth of Ballydesmond.

Fine Gael TD for Cork North West, Deputy John Paul O’Shea, has welcomed confirmation that construction works have commenced on the upgrade of Ballydesmond Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), representing an investment of approximately €5.5 million by Uisce Éireann.

Deputy O’Shea said the commencement of these works represents an important milestone for Ballydesmond and follows representations he has made to Uisce Éireann regarding the need for investment and improvements to the local wastewater infrastructure.

He said “I am delighted to receive confirmation from Uisce Éireann that construction works have now commenced on the upgrade of Ballydesmond Wastewater Treatment Plant, representing a significant investment of approximately €5.5 million.

“This is very welcome news for Ballydesmond and the surrounding community. Adequate wastewater infrastructure is essential to supporting the sustainable development of our rural towns and villages, protecting the local environment and ensuring that communities have the infrastructure necessary to grow into the future.

“The upgrade will involve significant improvements to the existing facility, including enhancements to the inlet and stormwater management systems, new biological and tertiary treatment processes, as well as associated sludge handling and other ancillary infrastructure.

“Importantly, this project is not simply about bringing the existing facility up to the required environmental and regulatory standards. It will also increase the treatment plant’s design capacity from 300 population equivalent (PE) to 350 PE, providing additional capacity to support the targeted growth objectives for Ballydesmond set out in the County Development Plan to 2034 and beyond.

“This additional capacity is particularly important as we look to support future housing, encourage development and ensure that Ballydesmond remains a vibrant and sustainable rural community.”

Cllr. Trish Murphy also welcomed the announcement, saying “This is excellent news for Ballydesmond and the wider community. The investment of €5.5 million in upgrading the wastewater treatment plant is a significant commitment and one that will have lasting benefits for the village.

“Having the necessary wastewater capacity in place is absolutely vital if we are to see further housing and development in Ballydesmond. Our rural towns and villages need this essential infrastructure to attract new families, support local businesses and ensure that communities can continue to grow.

“I am particularly pleased that the project will increase the plant’s capacity to 350 population equivalent, providing for the planned growth of Ballydesmond into the future. I want to acknowledge Deputy John Paul O’Shea for his continued engagement with Uisce Éireann on this issue and for helping to secure progress on this important investment.”

Deputy O’Shea confirmed that Uisce Éireann has advised that the works are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2028, although this timeframe could potentially be brought forward depending on contractor performance.

He added “I will continue to engage with Uisce Éireann throughout the delivery of this project to ensure that these important works progress as planned.

“Investment in wastewater infrastructure is fundamental to the future of rural Ireland. If we are serious about encouraging people to live, work and invest in our towns and villages, we must ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to facilitate that growth.

“The €5.5 million investment at Ballydesmond is a very positive development, and I look forward to seeing the project completed for the benefit of the local community.”