Waterford council and Irish Water begin construction on new pump station

Waterford County Council and Irish Water have begun construction on a new pump station in Ferrybank. 

The project - which includes upgrading the existing pump station on the former Dunlop site - represents a further step in the continued delivery of improvements to the wastewater network in the area. 

The new station will have expanded storage to significantly reduce the frequency of sewage overflows into the River Suir during bad weather, improve wastewater capacity in the Ferrybank catchment area, and meet all environmental standards for discharge of sewage overflows. 

The existing Ferrybank pump station currently occupies a small but central part of the Waterford North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) on an eight-hectare derelict site. 

Commenting on the upgrade, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary said, "This investment in a new pumping station in Ferrybank will have far-reaching benefits to the catchment area. Sewage overflows will be exponentially decreased which will undoubtedly be welcomed by the local community.

"The implementation of much improved wastewater infrastructure will improve flood protection, reduce the sites carbon footprint and facilitate future development as the catchment area grows." 

Upon completion, the project will reduce the risk of sewer overflow with the catchment, improve the separation of foul and surface water networks, enhance the water quality of the River Suir though improved foul water storage and reduced overflows and ensure compliance with the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directives. 

Works are expected to be completed by December 2023.

Lisa Cogan from Irish Water said, "We are delighted to be making progress on this essential wastewater improvement project in Ferrybank and as a result of the collaborative works between Irish Water and Waterford City and County Council, the local community will see the benefits for years to come in terms of health, integrity of the environment and improved water quality for all. 

"The construction of the pumping station and new wastewater pipes will ensure wastewater infrastructure capacity can meet future demand and support social and economic development in the Ferrybank area." 

The project is funded by Irish Water, the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), NTA and Waterford City and County Council. 

Earlier this month, the Government gave approval for €170.6m of investment in the Waterford North Quays Infrastructure Project, which will create a sustainable modern mixed-use development that will harness and extend Waterford’s city centre. 

It's hoped the project will leverage further investment in Waterford City and the region by attracting indigenous and multinational companies as well as the retail and tourism sectors.