Cleaner waters and a stronger future for north Donegal as €50m wastewater upgrade completed

Communities across north Donegal will benefit from cleaner waters and stronger infrastructure following the completion of a €50 million wastewater upgrade by Uisce Éireann.

This is the largest single project the utility has delivered to date in County Donegal.  The landmark investment will significantly improve water quality in Lough Swilly, protect the local environment, and support the continued growth of Ramelton, Milford, and Rathmullan.

Celebrations to mark the milestone were held this morning at the newly constructed Tirroddy Wastewater Treatment Plant, a state-of-the-art facility that now serves all three communities.

This investment will transform wastewater services in the area, improving water quality in Lough Swilly, protecting the local environment, and supporting the continued growth of these vibrant communities.

At the heart of the scheme is the new wastewater treatment plant at Tirroddy, which treats wastewater from all three towns through a modern, centralised system. The project also includes new pumping stations in Rathmullan, Milford, and Ramelton, along with an extensive network of pipelines transferring wastewater to the plant for safe and effective treatment.

A key outcome of the project is that it brings an end to the long-standing discharge of untreated wastewater into local waterways, including Lough Swilly, the Leannan Estuary and Maggie’s Burn. This will significantly improve water quality while protecting surrounding habitats and enhancing the amenity value of the area for residents and visitors alike.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, TD, welcomed the completion of this project adding: “Public water and wastewater services are essential to facilitating housing delivery as reflected in our new Housing Action Plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities. Continued investment is also vital to sustain and improve existing wastewater infrastructure in local communities. Projects of this scale in County Donegal are essential to protecting water quality, safeguarding our environment, and ensuring communities have the services they need to grow.”

Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Charlie McConalogue TD, said the project demonstrates the importance of continued investment in essential infrastructure.

“This project demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to protecting our environment, improving water quality and ensuring that communities across Ireland have the infrastructure they need to thrive, now and into the future. In addition to its environmental benefits, the upgraded infrastructure provides the capacity needed to support existing homes and businesses, while enabling future population growth and development across Rathmullan, Milford, and Ramelton.”

By replacing outdated infrastructure with modern treatment systems, the project ensures wastewater is treated to current standards before being safely returned to the environment.

Leas Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly, said it marked an important day for the county.

“This is a proud and significant day for County Donegal. The completion of this major wastewater project marks a transformational step forward for Rathmullan, Milford, and Ramelton and the wider region. This investment will play a vital role in protecting the exceptional natural beauty of Lough Swilly and its surrounding areas, while also supporting the sustainable growth and long-term development of these communities.”

Uisce Éireann’s Portfolio Manager Paul Fallon outlined that the project represents a key development for wastewater services in Donegal.

“The completion of the Rathmullan, Milford, and Ramelton Sewerage Scheme marks an important milestone for Uisce Éireann and for the communities it serves. This landmark investment will significantly enhance wastewater treatment standards in the area, protect the sensitive waters of Lough Swilly, and provide the capacity required to support sustainable growth and development for many years to come.”

This €50 million investment, delivered by Murphy Group on behalf of Uisce Éireann, is a significant step forward in the provision of modern wastewater services in north Donegal. It reflects Uisce Éireann’s continued commitment to improving essential infrastructure, protecting the local environment and supporting the long-term development of communities across the region.