Coffey has been shortlisted in the Irish Construction Excellence (ICE) Awards in the Civil Engineering category for the expansion of the Enfield Wastewater Treatment Plant, delivered in partnership with Uisce Éireann.

The project went beyond increasing treatment capacity, strengthening resilient wastewater services for local communities while protecting one of Ireland's most sensitive river environments.

A standout innovation is the installation of 11 Sludge Drying Reed Beds, now the largest nature‑based sludge treatment system in Uisce Éireann's portfolio. This low‑energy, chemical‑free solution removes the need for mechanical dewatering and reduces environmental impact.

-- Advertisement --

Key benefits include:

- Eliminating approximately 155 HGV sludge journeys each year

- Saving more than 48,750 kWh of energy across the system lifecycle

- Providing a sustainable, nature‑based approach to sludge management

Delivery required extensive collaboration and meticulous planning. Highlights included a 144‑week live operations and maintenance period with uninterrupted service; flood‑resilient design to a 1‑in‑1,000‑year standard to protect critical infrastructure along the River Blackwater; trenchless river crossings to safeguard sensitive aquatic habitats; close coordination between Uisce Éireann, specialist designers and environmental partners; and a safety‑first culture resulting in zero Lost Time Incidents.

The outcome is a high‑performing, lower‑carbon wastewater asset that supports regional growth and enhances environmental protection.

The scheme is also in contention for Project of the Year, with public voting now open at iceawards.ie/vote/. Finalist interviews take place today ahead of the ICE Awards Gala on 28 May.