Wastewater Infrastructure

Investment in Wastewater Infrastructure Key to Deliver Housing in Rural Ireland – O’Shea

Greater investment in wastewater treatment infrastructure is urgently needed to support housing development in rural County Cork, where a lack of proper facilities is preventing new homes from being built, Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has said.

Deputy O’Shea said: “I have again highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by rural communities where housing cannot progress due to inadequate wastewater treatment infrastructure. In towns like Kanturk & Newmarket in North Cork, wastewater capacity is already stretched, while in villages such as Churchtown, Dromahane, Glantane, Lombardstown and Ballydesmond the systems are already maxed out with no new capacity. This is directly limiting growth and regeneration in these areas, despite the demand for housing”.

“While land has been zoned for development under the Cork County Development Plan 2022–2028, without wastewater infrastructure, these plans remain on paper rather than delivering real homes. We need a clear and targeted strategy to prioritise wastewater investment in areas where housing is needed most”.

Deputy O’Shea added “I welcome the government’s commitment to addressing housing challenges, but we cannot overlook the basic infrastructure that makes development possible. If we are serious about tackling housing supply issues in rural Ireland, wastewater facilities must be part of the conversation. Without them, communities will continue to struggle with housing shortages, school closures, and declining local economies”.

“Pilot projects to introduce wastewater treatment in key rural locations would provide a practical and scalable solution, enabling new housing, supporting local businesses, and sustaining essential services such as schools and post offices. Cork County Council is ready to work with state agencies to advance these necessary projects, but national leadership and investment are required to make them a reality” concluded Deputy O’Shea.

Deputy O’Shea has committed to raising this issue with the Minister for Housing and Uisce Éireann, advocating for a targeted investment plan to deliver essential wastewater infrastructure and unlock the full potential of housing development in rural communities.