Major upgrade planned for B’boro water plant

Irish Water (Uisce Éireann) has applied to Cavan County Council for permission to carry out a major upgrade to the Bailieborough Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP).

The application, for a 10-year planning permission, outlines extensive redevelopment plans to enhance the plant’s capacity and performance to provide for future population growth and comply with stricter environmental standards.

The proposed works will significantly expand the capacity of the existing WWTP, which currently stands at an organic design capacity of 2,500 population equivalent (PE). The plant is currently operating above its intended design, at approximately 3,163PE, and the planned upgrade will allow the facility to cater for a projected 25-year population growth, with treatment capability for up to 5,500PE.

Key aspects of the development include the demolition and replacement of the existing inlet works, construction of a new stormwater storage tank, and the installation of a Dual Function Overflow (DFO) outfall pipe to an existing drainage culvert.

The plans also include the construction of an ESB substation and the installation of south-facing solar PV panels to improve energy efficiency. A Natura Impact Statement has been submitted as part of the planning process.

The plant currently discharges treated effluent into the River Blackwater at Lear Bridge and according to a planning report compiled by Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd, the upgraded WWTP will significantly improve final effluent quality by ensuring compliance with strict national and EU wastewater discharge standards.

The need for an upgraded WWTP has been well-documented.

In December 2019, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) audit led to the HSE issuing a 'Do Not Consume' notice on the Bailieborough water supply due to elevated manganese levels and operational deficiencies, including poor chemical dosing and the absence of turbidity alarms.

A decision is due by September 4.