A greener future: 10,000 trees to be planted at Troyswood Water Treatment Plant as part of sustainable project initiative
Deputy John McGuinness has welcomed a substantial investment into the future of Kilkennys water supply by Uisce Éireann.
The completion of a major €33 million investment in Kilkenny City securing the water supply for future generations and enabling growth and development in the area was officially marked on Thursday.
Deputy John McGuinness said, “This is a positive investment in Kilkenny as the project has significantly increased the capacity of the existing Troyswood Water Treatment Plant, establishing it as the main water treatment facility for over 28,000 people across Kilkenny City, ensuring a more secure and reliable water supply for the region.”
“I want to commend all involved, particularly those involved on the ground during construction as this is an extensive expansion and upgrade of the existing plant, construction of a new raw water intake from the river Nore, pumping facilities as well as delivering an interconnecting 2.9km water main from Troyswood to the Radestown site,” said Deputy McGuinness.
An event to mark completion of the works took place this week led by Malcolm Noonan TD, Minster of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform and supported by Deputy John McGuinness, Mayor Andrew McGuinness, Leas-Chathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Councillor Peter Cleere, local councillors, and representatives from Uisce Éireann and Kilkenny County Council.
Speaking at the event Maria O’Dwyer, Infrastructure Delivery Director with Uisce Éireann said:
“I’m delighted to be here to celebrate the completion of this critical project for the people of Kilkenny City and surrounding areas. Delivery of this project was essential to reduce the risk of water quality issues and provide the necessary capacity to support growth and development in Kilkenny. Access to safe and secure water is not just a necessity; it is a foundation for health, prosperity, and a sustainable future.
The team behind this project took immense pride in their work, with key focus on ensuring the continued provision of safe, clean drinking water to local homes and businesses. As part of our ongoing commitment to deliver sustainable water supplies across Ireland, we have embedded principles of repurposing, reusing, and efficiency into the design of this major upgrade which is set in the picturesque valley of the river Nore.
Additionally, we are excited to announce the upcoming planting of 10,000 native trees at the Troyswood site. Delivering an upgrade of this scale while remaining environmentally conscious, ensuring there is sufficient water supply for much-needed growth, have been our top priority”.
Commenting on the importance of this investment to the people of Kilkenny, Malcolm Noonan TD, Minster of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform said:
‘It is encouraging to see the benefits of our ongoing commitment to invest in critical water infrastructure now coming to fruition. Secure, sustainable water supplies are essential for our growing populations and thriving businesses. After many years on the EPA’s Remedial Action List, Kilkenny’s drinking water supply is now up to standard and fit for the future of our growing city and region. I want to acknowledge the collaboration and dedication the project required and congratulate everyone involved in reaching this important milestone.”
Mayor Andrew McGuinness said, “this is a great day for the future of Kilkennys water supply and future generations. It is a massive investment and something we will all benefit greatly from. I was delighted to participate in marking the official completion as Mayor of Kilkenny.
The multimillion-euro upgrade also involved decommissioning of the Radestown Water Treatment Plant, along with upgrade works at Radestown Reservoirs. It facilitated removal of all those supplied by the Radestown Water Treatment Plant from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) list of at-risk water supplies.
The works were delivered by Glanua on behalf of Uisce Éireann and supported by Ryan Hanley.
