The development of a landmark state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant in Arklow, Co Wicklow, is continuing to take shape.

Led by Irish Water in partnership with Wicklow County Council, the €139 million project will see the new facility bring significant benefits to the local community in terms of protecting the environment and improving water quality in the River Avoca for angling, water sports and marine life. The plant will also act as an enabler for housing and support economic growth and development in the town.

Works are progressing well and construction will begin on the South Quay in the coming weeks. To ensure the safety of crews and the public, a number of traffic management measures will be in place and the junction of Harbour Road and South Quay will be closed from Monday, 07 February. During the works, there will be no left turn from Harbour Road onto South Quay. There will also be works at the junction of South Green and South Quay where access to the South Quay will be restricted to local traffic. Works will include tree felling, services diversions and construction of tunnelling shafts which will facilitate the new sewer pipeline.

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Local and emergency access will be maintained at all times throughout the work. Works on the North Quays are progressing well and will continue over the coming weeks with current traffic management remaining in place.

Speaking about the works, Michael Tinsley, Portfolio Delivery Manager with Irish Water, said: "We are delighted to announce that works on this essential project are progressing well and we look forward to starting the next phase of works along the South Quay. Eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into the River Avoca has always been a priority for Irish Water and we are committed to ending this current practice and safeguarding water quality in the river and marine environment.

"The new wastewater treatment plant will have significant benefits for both residents and businesses as well as tourists that visit the area as it will improve the water quality in the River Avoca and enable future economic growth. We will continue to work closely with the local community and on behalf of Irish Water, I would like to thank businesses and residents for their ongoing support and cooperation as we progress this vital project."

The project is being carried out by Ward and Burke Water Limited on behalf of Irish Water.