Major Water Plant Upgrade Progressing in East Cork as €22 Million Investment Takes Shape

Uisce Éireann's ambitious transformation of Whitegate Water Treatment Plant continues to advance, with mechanical and electrical installations now underway as part of a comprehensive €22 million project set to revolutionise water supply for East Cork communities.

The extensive upgrade involves completely decommissioning the existing facility and constructing an entirely new water treatment plant, representing one of the largest infrastructure investments in the region. With significant construction milestones already achieved, crews are maintaining momentum through mechanical and electrical installation work alongside building cladding operations.

The project aims to address longstanding concerns about water supply resilience and quality in the Whitegate area whilst supporting sustainable development across East Cork. Local residents can expect improved reliability and enhanced water quality when the new facility becomes fully operational by the end of 2026.

Hugh Kennedy, Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann, spoke about the project's significance:

"As the local community are aware, the upgrade of Whitegate Water Treatment Plant is a crucial piece of infrastructure for East Cork. We are delighted that works are progressing on schedule to improve the resilience and quality of drinking water in Whitegate.

We are making steady progress on this vital project, which will bring significant benefits to the local community and the surrounding areas. Uisce Éireann would like to thank the local community for their continued patience and ongoing support as we complete this essential project."

The Whitegate upgrade forms part of a broader infrastructure transformation in the area. Running parallel to the water treatment plant project, Uisce Éireann's €17 million Whitegate-Aghada sewerage scheme upgrade, which commenced in 2022, is approaching completion. This dual investment approach promises comprehensive improvements to both water supply and wastewater management for the region.

The timing of these upgrades reflects Uisce Éireann's commitment to supporting East Cork's continued growth whilst maintaining environmental standards. The new treatment plant will incorporate modern technology designed to meet current regulatory requirements and anticipate future demand from residential and commercial development in the area.

For East Cork residents who have experienced water supply challenges in recent years, the 2026 completion date represents a significant milestone. The new facility will replace aging infrastructure that has required ongoing maintenance and periodic service interruptions.

Local communities can access detailed project information through Uisce Éireann's dedicated webpage, which provides regular updates on construction progress and any temporary service impacts during the transition period.

The investment reinforces Uisce Éireann's broader strategy of upgrading critical infrastructure across Ireland, with particular focus on regions experiencing growth pressures. East Cork's expanding population and economic development have highlighted the need for resilient utility services capable of supporting long-term sustainable growth.

Construction teams continue working through the autumn months, with mechanical and electrical installations representing the current phase of activity. Weather conditions permitting, the project remains on schedule for completion within the next 15 months.

Further information about the Whitegate Water Treatment Plant upgrade is available at: https://www.water.ie/projects/local-projects/whitegate-water-treatment-plant-upgrade