Upgrade for Mullagh plant
Mullagh’s public sewerage system is set to receive a major upgrade, Irish Water confirmed, but not before 2025, writes Michelle Taite. The proposed upgrade is welcome news for residents who were horrified to find sewage resurfaced in the carpark of their local GAA grounds on multiple occasions.
The issue was highlighted at Ballyjamesduff’s Municipal District Meeting last week.
The motion was raised by local Independent Councillor Shane P O’Reilly who deemed it a “health issue”.
The Mullagh man stated that the town's sewerage system is over capacity and not fit to keep up with the growing population.
The period of heavy rain in October and November put further pressure on the system, forcing its contents to overflow out of drains.
Cllr O’Reilly put forward the idea of removing the drainage point from the carpark of Mullagh Sports Centre and relocating it further “out the Moynalty Road” so as it does not affect the community area again.
“I know it’s a pipe dream,” he continued.
A plan was put in place by Irish Water having been notified about the recurring issue.
“The upgrade of Mullagh Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) has been selected as part of the Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme,” confirmed a spokesperson for the public body.
“Irish Water put this unique programme in place and allocated funding having identified the need to support growth in smaller towns and villages. The projects were selected following detailed consultation with local authorities to identify and prioritise areas for investment.”
The project will involve the upgrade of the Mullagh WWTP at the existing site to provide additional capacity for growth.
The current plant provides wastewater treatment for a population equivalent of 1,994. Following upgrade works, the plant’s capacity will be increased to serve a population equivalent of approximately 3,400.
“The project is progressing well and Irish Water expects to submit a planning application to Cavan County Council in 2025,” concluded the Irish Water spokesperson.