A new €9 million wastewater treatment plant has been officially opened in Belmullet, Co Mayo, ending the discharge of untreated wastewater in the area.

Located at Corclough, the plant will benefit over 1,000 local people and visitors to the town and provide the capacity to treat wastewater for a population of up to 2,500 people.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring and Councillor Blackie Gavin, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, opened the development.

Speaking at the opening Minister Ring said: "The investment of €9 million by Irish Water in this new treatment plant will ensure Belmullet can retain its position as a tourism hub in addition to providing the capacity for future economic development."

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Cllr Blackie Gavin, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, added: "Belmullet is a modern and vibrant town at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, attracting many visitors and it deserves top quality infrastructure. I am very proud to be here today to open the new plant and I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the work of Mayo County Council and Irish Water for bringing this long-awaited project to fruition."

Roadbridge and EPS carried out the project on behalf of Irish Water and Mayo County Council.

Speaking at the event Colm Claffey, Irish Water commented: "The new wastewater treatment plant will ensure that wastewater is treated and discharged in compliance with the Urban Wastewater Treatment Regulations 2001 and conditions as set out in the EPA's Wastewater Discharge Licence (WWDL). This project will also improve the water quality of nearby coastal areas, protecting bathing areas and the aquatic environment from pollution."

Irish Water is also delivering further upgrades at water treatment plants in Mulranny, Kiltimagh, Swinford, Foxford, Erris, Wherrew, Newport, Westport, and Louisburgh.

(CM/MH)