The sod has been turned on a 114 million euro wastewater project in Athlone.
It took place earlier today by Minister Darragh O'Brien at the site of the new pumping station currently under construction at Golden Island.
The Athlone Main Drainage Project involves the construction of new pumping stations at Golden Island and Coosan West, and almost 3km of new sewers. The existing pumping stations and pipework will be decommissioned and combined sewer overflows will be eliminated at six locations along the River Shannon.
These will be replaced by two new stormwater overflows designed to meet current licencing standards, which Irish Water say will improve water quality and safeguard the environment. The project itself is one of the largest investments by Uisce Eireann to date.
Speaking at today's sod turning Minister Daragh O'Brien welcomed the commencement of work and stated it was pivotal for the future growth and development of the town. Uisce Eireann say they will continue to engage with the local community throughout the duration of the project.
