Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant in Dublin is set to undergo major upgrades to improve the water quality in the area.

The Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant treats approximately 40% of Ireland's public wastewater. It is operating over capacity and is not in compliance with the EU's Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive.

Planning permission was granted for the works, which will see Aerobic Granular Sludge (AGS) utilised to allow for a greater amount of wastewater to be treated to a higher standard.

Jean Hobbs, Project Manager with Irish Water, said: "Having adequate wastewater treatment infrastructure is essential to safeguard the environment and to facilitate housing and commercial development. These works will allow the wastewater generated every day in our homes, schools and workplaces to be treated in compliance with the EU and national wastewater treatment regulations and returned safely to Dublin Bay.

-- Advertisement --

"The upgrade project uses innovative technology to deliver a more sustainable, safe, and environmentally sensitive solution for the Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant. Irish Water's experts identified the new AGS technology as the best solution for the Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant and we began detailed testing and trials in April 2015. These trials proved hugely successful and confirmed that wastewater treated by AGS technology can be safely discharged at the current outfall location while protecting the nutrient sensitive Lower Liffey Estuary and Dublin Bay."

The Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Project is one of a range of major investments that Irish Water is rolling out to support the economic projections for growth in the Greater Dublin Area.

(CM/MH)