Uisce Éireann has confirmed that the €114 million Athlone Main Drainage Scheme is now more than 95 per cent complete, marking one of the most significant wastewater infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the Midlands.

The reopening of the Strand car park in the town centre, following major tunnelling works, marks a key milestone in the final phase of the scheme.

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Westmeath County Council, is upgrading the Athlone sewer network to reduce the risk of flooding and prevent non-compliant overflows into the River Shannon. The project will also increase the capacity of the sewer system to support both current and future population growth.

At present, there are 18 storm water overflows within Athlone’s main drainage system. The existing network has insufficient capacity, leading to frequent out-of-sewer flooding and the discharge of untreated wastewater into the River Shannon, which is a designated sensitive area. Athlone is among the locations cited in a European Court judgment against the State for failing to comply with the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive.

The Athlone Main Drainage Scheme will bring the town into compliance with environmental and regulatory standards, supporting sustainable development while protecting water quality in the Shannon.

The project includes the construction of two new pumping stations at Golden Island and Coosan West, and almost three kilometres of new underground sewer pipes. The new Coosan West pumping station is now operational, while testing and commissioning of the Golden Island terminal pumping station are at an advanced stage.

Eunan Canavan, portfolio manager at Uisce Éireann, said the scheme would have lasting environmental and economic benefits. “With works now more than 95 per cent complete, the finish line is in sight. This scheme will protect the environment, reduce the risk of flooding and support the next generation of growth in Athlone,” he said.

The project is being delivered by Ward and Burke Construction Ltd on behalf of Uisce Éireann. When completed later this year, it will transform wastewater management in Athlone, prevent untreated discharges to the Shannon, and provide the capacity needed for the town’s continued expansion.