Contractors Dawson WAM and Ovivo have completed work to upgrade and extend Newcastle Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW) in Co Down.

A total of £8 million was invested in the plant, which will deliver an improved standard of discharge to local bathing waters in line with future European Directives.

The extension includes an additional UV treatment stream and an extensive stormwater storage facility. The eco-friendly 'green roof' of the new extension is also a highlight and NI Water's project team worked closely with architects, engineers and local landscape experts to develop a visually-pleasing design for the roof of the new extension. The roof has been planted out with low-maintenance, native vegetation that will not only provide a natural habitat for birds and insects, but will also present an attractive landscape, which blends in with the scenic harbour area.

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Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick were on site yesterday to view the recently upgraded Newcastle Wastewater Treatment Works . This visit marks the completion of a major £8m investment at the plant in this popular tourist seaside town, which will deliver

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down Council, Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick said: "Newry, Mourne and Down Council are pleased to view the upgraded NI Water plant, which is essential to protect our bathing waters. The scenic importance of the area was carefully considered throughout the project and the roof of the extension undoubtedly enhances the local landscape.

"The Council look forward to using the former generator house to further enhance and regenerate the harbour area for the general public and growing number of tourists in the area."

Dermott McCurdy, Head of Wastewater Treatment Capital Delivery said: "NI Water is committed to protecting the environment and every year we return 1.3 billion litres of wastewater from over 1000 Wastewater Treatment Works across Northern Ireland. The completion of the Newcastle project is just one example of our continued commitment to the environment, enhancing local bathing water quality and ensuring that we meet current and future EU directives."

(CD/LM)