An innovative project to improve the water quality in Gweedore Bay, Co Donegal, is making great strides forward.

Over half of the pods have been installed as part of the Demonstration Project, with the remainder of the works expected to take a further four months to complete.

Led by Irish Water and Donegal County Council while being delivered by Cleantech Civils, the scheme will solve the problem of inadequate sewage treatment in Gweedore, its over reliance on the use of septic tank systems and will improve water quality in Gweedore Bay. It will also provide environmental benefits, support future growth in the area and ensure compliance with Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive.

Speaking about the works, Irish Water's Patrick Greene explained: "We are delighted to announce that works in Gweedore are progressing on schedule. This is the second phase of works being undertaken as part of the Gweedore Sewerage Scheme. Phase one of the works in 2019, saw the successful installation of the pressure sewer network associated with this project. This required the installation of approximately 2.5km of new wastewater network along Factory Road, the Lower Road and the link road connecting both. As part of this second phase of works, Irish Water has now successfully installed 20 of the 40 pods in Gweedore. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community and those participating in the scheme for their continued support as these works progress."

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He added: "This innovative new sewerage scheme will ultimately lead to a reduction on the reliance of septic tanks in the area. This will decrease the discharge of untreated wastewater to the environment by enhancing the treatment of wastewater. Upon completion, the project will benefit all those living and visiting the area and will have a significant positive impact on water quality in Gweedore Bay and improve water quality for swimmers, surfers and fishermen."

When complete, the scheme will ensure collected wastewater is treated at the existing Údaras na Gaeltachta Wastewater Treatment Plant. This wastewater treatment plant will also undergo a significant upgrade to ensure continued compliance with Irish Water maintenance standards.