A new £7m wastewater treatment plant has officially opened in Glenstall, Ballymoney.

The new works are capable of treating wastewater flow from a population of approximately 40,650 in the area.

The state-of-the-art treatment facility will result in reduced carbon footprint, operational flexibility, and will ensure that wastewater treatment in the area meets the latest European standards.

Welcoming the project’s completion, Infrastructure Minister Conor Murphy said: "This significant investment will ensure that the facility supports growth and ongoing development in the Ballymoney area. Since April 2007, NI Water has now officially opened 22 Wastewater Treatment Works representing an investment of over £146million.

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"Overall, NI Water is investing approximately £1million per working day to upgrade the water and sewerage infrastructure right across the North.

"Glenstall is just one example of the scale of investment required to provide cleaner beaches and rivers, meet European standards, respond to increasing demand and deliver a 21st century water and wastewater infrastructure," added Mr Murphy.

Chris Mellor, Chairman and Chief Executive of NI Water, said: "NI Water is committed to investing in projects that deliver the best solutions and benefit the local economy, community and environment.

"The Glenstall project involved the removal of the old Ballybrakes Works and the creation of a new modern wastewater treatment facility. In addition to accommodating growth in the area, the new works has upgraded the quality of treatment and effluent discharging to the River Bann.

"I would like to pay tribute to the expertise of the team involved in this scheme and congratulate our project managers and contractors on delivering it on schedule," added Mr Mellor.

(PR)