Communities in Tullow and nearby areas are now benefitting from a major modernisation of the town's wastewater network, creating headroom for development while protecting the local environment.

Uisce Éireann has finished the Tullow Wastewater Network project, a €17 million programme that strengthens the town's wastewater infrastructure and provides capacity for a population equivalent of up to 9,200.

The scheme builds on the €10 million upgrade of the Tullow Wastewater Treatment Plant completed in 2023, by enhancing the network feeding into the plant and ensuring the overall system has the resilience required to support future growth.

A key environmental outcome is the elimination of untreated wastewater entering the River Slaney.

This marks a significant advance for the river, delivering long‑term benefits for water quality, aquatic habitats and biodiversity, as well as for communities along its banks. The completed works also ensure compliance with the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, bringing modern environmental standards to the area.

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The project involved extensive upgrades, including 1.8 km of new pipeline to improve performance and capacity. A new terminal pumping station and storm water tank were constructed, along with a modern, controlled storm water overflow to better manage flows during heavy rainfall.

Esther White, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: "This project represents a significant piece of wastewater infrastructure for Tullow, delivered to support the town's continued growth while also improving environmental outcomes. Just as importantly, the upgrade included the construction of a new storm water tank and involved carefully tunnelling beneath the River Slaney to minimise environmental disturbance. Together, these measures help to reduce untreated discharges and protect water quality and the wider river ecosystem for the community."

The completion of the network upgrade, together with the earlier treatment plant improvements, delivers an integrated and resilient wastewater system for Tullow and surrounding communities.

Uisce Éireann, which provides all public water and wastewater services in Ireland, says it remains committed to upgrading critical infrastructure to support housing and economic growth while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies.