A new state-of-the-art £23 million Wastewater Treatment Works at Antrim has been officially opened by the NI Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy.

The project, which is designed to cater for a population of 87,000, included the upgrading of the facility and improving the wastewater infrastructure in Antrim and the surrounding area including parts of Crumlin, Randalstown and Templepatrick.

Welcoming the project’s completion, the Minister said: "This project represents a major investment for Antrim and the surrounding area. It will bring significant benefits to the local economy and the environment, whilst meeting the needs of the growing population in the area.

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"The facility has been designed to meet the latest Environment Agency standards for wastewater treatment. Other elements of the work, such as the new pumping station in Antrim and the closure of combined sewer overflows will provide protection to the sensitive Six Mile Water River and have a hugely positive impact on the quality of water in Lough Neagh.

"To deliver such a project on time and in budget was a significant undertaking by all the team involved and they should be proud of their achievement."

Laurence MacKenzie, Chief Executive of NI Water said: "This project was a tremendous undertaking by NI Water and its success lies in the planning and strategic thinking of all involved, including Antrim Borough Council and other agencies.

"Over 115,000 man hours were required to complete the project, with impact on the environment and the public at the forefront of everything that was done. Night working was undertaken to ensure busy roads were reopened for morning commuters, while an archaeologist was present during excavation near Antrim Castle Gardens to ensure any significant finds were recorded and preserved if necessary."

The work in Antrim represents part of a £490 million investment by NI Water in wastewater services throughout the North over the past three years.

(GK/KMcA)