Uisce Éireann has opened a non-statutory public consultation on a major upgrade to the Ballina and Lough Talt Water Supply, signalling a key step forward for communities in North Mayo and South Sligo.

Running until Monday, 20 April, the consultation is the next phase in delivering significant investment to strengthen the resilience of the water supply in Ballina and nearby areas, while securing a sustainable source for the Lough Talt Water Supply Scheme.

Members of the public are invited to submit their views on the proposed works. Feedback will help shape Uisce Éireann’s planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála, ensuring the final scheme reflects the priorities of residents and businesses.

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To support the process, a public information event will take place on Wednesday, 15 April at Kennedy Glasgow House, Quay Road, Ballina. The project team will be available between 4pm and 8pm to answer questions and outline the benefits of the plans for the region.

The upgrade will add treatment capacity and treated water storage at Lisglennon Water Treatment Plant, modernise Ballina’s ageing water network, lay a new trunk main from Lisglennon to Ballina and onwards to Bonniconlon and Lough Talt, and provide extra network storage at Bonniconlon and Lough Talt. The added capacity will support future growth, while ending water abstraction from Lough Talt will help restore natural lake levels and deliver ecological gains for local habitats and wildlife.

Speaking about the project, John McElwaine, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: "We have been progressing the development of this vital upgrade for North Mayo and South Sligo for some time and we’re delighted to now begin the consultation phase. We're looking forward to discussing the project further with the local communities in the coming weeks."