The completion of the major  investment at the plant will deliver an improved standard of discharge to local bathing waters in line with future European Directives. 

As well as major refurbishment work at the existing WwTW, a major new extension was constructed which included an additional UV treatment stream and an extensive stormwater storage facility. The eco-friendly “green roof” of the new extension is also a highlight and NI Water’s project team worked closely with architects, engineers and local landscape experts to develop a visually-pleasing design for the roof of the new extension. 

The roof has been planted out with low-maintenance, native vegetation that will not only provide a natural habitat for birds and insects, but will also present an attractive landscape, which blends in with the scenic harbour area.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council are currently in the process of purchasing the Generator House, which NI Water no longer require at the Newcastle plant following the refurbishment.The Council intend to use the Generator House as a Harbourmaster’s Office and Public Information Point, which will further enhance the Harbour as part of the Council’s Regeneration Plan. 

Many local construction staff were involved in the project - local building companies and services were used during the construction phase.

 

Dermott McCurdy, Head of Wastewater Treatment Capital Delivery said:

“NI Water is committed to protecting the environment and every year we return 1.3 billion litres of wastewater from over 1000 Wastewater Treatment Works across Northern Ireland. The completion of the Newcastle project is just one example of our continued commitment to the environment, enhancing local bathing water quality and ensuring that we meet current and future EU directives.” 

The contractor for the Newcastle project was a joint venture partnership between Saintfield-based Dawson WAM and Ovivo from Newry