Uisce Éireann (Irish Water) has announced the completion of the €550 million expansion and modernisation of the Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), a strategic facility serving the Greater Dublin Area. The project increases treatment capacity while enhancing environmental protection standards for Dublin Bay and the Lower Liffey Estuary.
Operational since 1906, the Ringsend plant processes approximately 40% of Ireland’s public wastewater, serving the four Dublin local authorities as well as parts of Counties Kildare and Meath. Its previous major upgrade in 2005 provided secondary treatment for a population equivalent of 1.64 million. In the years that followed, sustained demographic and economic growth resulted in the plant operating above its intended design limits.
The newly completed works expand capacity to the equivalent of 2.4 million people and introduce advanced nutrient removal processes. According to Uisce Éireann, these improvements ensure compliance with the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive and contribute to higher water quality in receiving waters, benefiting ecosystems and recreational users alike.
Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Ray McAdam stated: “The completion of the Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant is a milestone for our city - protecting Dublin Bay, supporting sustainable growth, and strengthening the foundations of a cleaner, greener, more resilient Dublin. This investment reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding the environment for future generations while ensuring our capital continues to thrive.”
James Browne T.D., Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, described the development as the largest wastewater infrastructure investment ever undertaken by the State, highlighting its importance for EU compliance and sustainable regional growth.
Niall Gleeson, CEO of Uisce Éireann, emphasised that the project marks a significant step for Ireland’s environmental infrastructure and confirmed that work is already under way on the Greater Dublin Drainage project to further reinforce long-term system resilience.
