Uisce Éireann has announced that two new sewerage schemes have been completed in

Kerrykeel and Kilcar as two new sewerage schemes.

The schemes involved the construction of two new wastewater treatment plants were completed, representing a €10 million investment by Uisce Éireann in Donegal's future and environment.

Not only have the two new treatment plants removed the discharge of raw sewage from Mulroy Bay and Tawny Bay respectively, but this investment in Kerrykeel and Kilcar wastewater infrastructure is also an enabler for housing and will support economic growth and development in the area.

Water quality in Mulroy Bay and Tawny Bay will also see significant improvement due to this investment.

In Kerrykeel, the initiative included the establishment of a fresh wastewater treatment facility designed to serve an equivalent population of around 500. Additionally, it included the installation of a new pumping station, the implementation of fresh sewer pipelines for transporting wastewater from the newly established pumping station to the recently constructed treatment plant, and the incorporation of a new outfall pipe to ensure the secure discharge of treated wastewater into Burnside River, adhering to regulatory standards.

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In Kilcar the project included the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant for a population equivalent of approximately 1,800, an upgrade to the existing pumping station, and connection to the existing outfall pipe to safely discharge treated wastewater to Tawny Bay in compliance with regulatory standards.

Veolia, working on behalf of Uisce Éireann, delivered the works as part of both projects.

Uisce Éireann's Angus Hall said: "As the New Year approaches, 2023 will certainly be remembered as a pivotal year for the communities of Kerrykeel and Kilcar as two new wastewater treatment plants came into operation. Eliminating the discharge of raw sewage into Mulroy Bay and Tawny Bay has always been a priority for Uisce Éireann and we are proud to be ending this practice, safeguarding the local environment and enhancing tourism opportunities for the communities of Kerrykeel and Kilcar.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local communities of Kerrykeel and Kilcar for their ongoing support and patience throughout the delivery of these vital projects."