New wastewater infrastructure to futureproof Foynes

Uisce Éireann is progressing with plans for the proposed Foynes Sewerage Scheme, a vital project that will eliminate the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Shannon Estuary and support future housing and economic development in the town. 

The project, which has been submitted for planning, will deliver a new wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and associated infrastructure. This essential investment will significantly improve water quality, delivering clear benefits for the environment, local ecology, and support recreation and tourism. It will also provide the capacity needed for new homes and local enterprise, supporting sustainable growth, while helping safeguard Foynes’ coastal setting. 

We are also keen to correct some inaccurate public commentary in relation to the merits and environmental impact of the project. These claims did not reflect the rigorous planning and environmental assessment processes it is subject to. We will continue to correct the record in relation to this, and work directly with the local community to deliver this much needed project.

The proposed site has been identified following detailed technical, environmental and planning assessment, including consideration of alternatives and relevant land use and zoning policies, and represents the most suitable option to deliver essential wastewater infrastructure for Foynes while supporting the broader sustainable development of the area. 

We also wish to clarify inaccuracies in claims made regarding primary treatment and untreated wastewater discharging into the Shannon Estuary. The receiving water is assessed to determine the appropriate level of treatment required. For the Foynes project, the wastewater will undergo preliminary and primary treatment. Preliminary treatment consists of screening. It removes the large items such as rags, wipes and rubbish from the wastewater, and protects the downstream WWTP processes from damage. Primary treatment removes solids from wastewater by allowing them to settle in settlement tanks, with the resulting sludge sent for further treatment. The delivery of this project will eliminate the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Shannon. 

Niall Collins, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and local TD for Foynes, is pleased to see the project progressing: “The delivery of this project by Uisce Éireann is important for the people of Foynes. This infrastructure is essential to ending the current discharge of untreated wastewater and to safeguarding the long-term environmental and economic future of Foynes. It will deliver clear environmental benefits, while supporting much-needed housing and enabling the town to grow sustainably. Continued investment in wastewater infrastructure is critical to future proofing communities across Limerick and the increased funding allocated to Uisce Éireann will help accelerate the delivery of such infrastructure and support towns like Foynes into the future." 

Esther White, Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann, is looking forward to delivering this project for the community in Foynes. “At present there is no wastewater treatment in Foynes, with all untreated sewerage discharging directly into the Shannon Estuary. This critical project will address that protecting the sensitive receiving waters of the estuary. The delivery of these works will ensure compliance with environmental standards and requirements, and enhanced water quality.” 

“We are committed to ongoing engagement with elected representatives and the local community, including through briefings and a public information evening held in February ahead of the planning submission. We will continue to provide clear, factual information on the project and its benefits.”

The works are expected to commence in 2027, subject to planning approval. 

Customers are encouraged to visit our website for updates or contact us on 1800 278 278 with any queries.

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment.