€114m Westmeath Wastewater Upgrade Complete

Thursday, 30 April 2026 12:44

The project is expected to support future growth and improve the River Shannon's water quality.

A €114 million Main Drainage Scheme is complete in Westmeath.

Over three kilometres of new large sewers have been installed beneath Athlone Town, to prevent frequent out-of-sewer flooding.

The project provides over four million litres of storm water storage, which will come into action during extensive or heavy rainfall events.

Portfolio Manager at Uisce Éireann, Eunan Canavan says it will greatly benefit the local community:

The project will support housing and sustainable growth in the town, while bringing significant improvements to water quality in the River Shannon.

The development is one of the largest wastewater infrastructure projects ever undertaken in Ireland, and will addresses long-standing issues with sewer flooding in the town, lack of wastewater capacity and poor environmental compliance.

Speaking at the opening event on the banks of the Shannon today, Minister Browne noted the critical importance of the investment:

"The completion of the Athlone Main Drainage Scheme marks a major milestone for the town and represents one of the most significant investments ever made by the State in wastewater infrastructure.

"Through the National Development Plan, the Government is making unprecedented investments in water and wastewater infrastructure nationwide, helping towns like Athlone to grow sustainably and protect our environment for generations to come.

"Investment in our infrastructure is also investment in housing and the future homes which are dependent on wastewater services."

The €114m Main Drainage Scheme in Athlone.

Portfolio Manager at Uisce Éireann, Eunan Canavan.

A tree was planted at the opening to mark the occasion.

Local reps and Chamber of Commerce members attended the opening alongside Minister James Browne.

Minister James Browne, Junior Minister Robert Troy, Minister Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran and Councillor Aengus O’Rourke say Investment in infrastructure also supports housing and future homes that rely on wastewater services.