Last Updated on: 16th May 2025, 03:58 pm
Ireland has reached a significant environmental milestone with the opening of the Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant—a €139 million development that brings an end to the discharge of untreated sewage into the River Avoca.
The completion of the long-awaited facility was celebrated by Uisce Éireann, Ayesa, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Minister James Browne, and other local officials. Operational since late 2024, the plant was delivered on time, under budget, and six months ahead of schedule—setting a new standard in project delivery.
The site, located in Ferrybank on Ireland’s east coast, now provides vital infrastructure to protect marine ecosystems while paving the way for new housing and commercial projects throughout the Arklow region.
What sets the project apart is not just its technical capability but its architectural distinction. The plant’s modern, sculptural form integrates seamlessly into its coastal setting and has received the coveted Downes Medal from the Architectural Association of Ireland—an award rarely given to utility facilities. This highlights how well-designed infrastructure can elevate both the environment and the urban landscape.
“This project has been a decade in the making, and I couldn’t be prouder of the Ayesa (formerly ByrneLooby) team,” said Luke O’Connor, Director of Water, Ayesa Ireland. “Their dedication—from the earliest feasibility studies to project handover—has shaped a facility that is now a global benchmark in wastewater infrastructure.”
Over the course of more than ten years, Ayesa provided end-to-end support for the scheme. This included early environmental assessments, stakeholder engagement, and the design of complex components such as a 1,000-metre marine pipeline, a river tunnel beneath the Avoca, and a high-capacity pumping system. Ayesa also managed project delivery in the role of Employer’s Representative.
“Being here on the first day we turned the sod and now to see the plant fully operational—ahead of schedule and already making a difference for the community—is incredibly rewarding. This is more than just infrastructure; it’s a legacy project for Arklow and it’s deeply personal to us,” said Michael Looby, Director at Ayesa.
Michael Tinsley of Uisce Éireann acknowledged the significance of the achievement, stating: “The successful delivery of the Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant marks a major milestone for the community and for Uisce Éireann. Ayesa’s collaborative approach with all stakeholders, and technical expertise were vital to progressing this complex and long-anticipated project.”
Speaking at the launch, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed the Government’s commitment to continued investment in infrastructure that serves both environmental and development goals. He said: “The Government recognises the vital role of strategic infrastructure investment in meeting the country’s demand for housing while also protecting and enhancing the environment. That’s why we are committed to working with Uisce Éireann to bring forward essential projects like this plant in Arklow, which is currently capable of supporting a population of 24,000 but holds the potential to expand to 36,000.”
The Arklow plant now stands as a flagship project for sustainability in Ireland—delivering cleaner waters, regional resilience, and a new vision for how infrastructure can be both functional and forward-thinking.
