Works to upgrade 'problematic' pump station in Waterford town to begin in new year

Works to upgrade the Knockateemore pumping station in Dungarvan will begin early in the New Year, it has been confirmed

Waterford TD John Cummins, who was elected in last month's General Election, says he has been informed that agreement has now been reached between all parties in relation to the upgrading and taking in charge of the facility which has been problematic for all residents from the Cruachán area of the town.

In a statement, the former senator confirmed that a contractor has now been issued instruction by Uisce Éireann to upgrade the Knockateemore pumping station, with works expected to commence in early 2025.

“This has been a long and protracted process, but I’m delighted that we have now overcome some of the last hurdles. I obviously won’t be happy until the project is completed and operational, but I believe all the pressure which I and others have applied over the past twelve months has ensured this essential project was prioritised.”

In his capacity as a Senator, Mr Cummins made continuous representations to Uisce Éireann looking for a resolution on the matter. In June of this year, further to his initial representations, he  challenged the CEO of Uisce Éireann Niall Gleeson on the issue during a meeting of the joint Oireachtas Committee for Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

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It is understood there has been continuous engagement between Waterford City and County Council, Uisce Éireann and the developers to come to a workable solution which all parties were agreeable to.

According to the newly-elected TD, Uisce Éireann has now confirmed that the local authority has "provided a strong commitment" as regards the Taking In Charge of the pump station which means plans for the upgrade works can be progressed early in January.

“This has been a long process but thankfully the work and persistence has paid off. The current situation was simply untenable with odour and frequent blockages. I’d like to thank the residents of the Cruachán area in Dungarvan for initially reaching out to my office and for patiently working with me and all the other stakeholders to help get this over the line. I look forward to seeing the contractor start works on the pumping station in the new year," commented Deputy Cummins