Uisce Éireann has announced that preparatory works are now underway on the Greater Dublin Drainage (GDD) Project after the project received the green light in December 2025 – the critical national infrastructure project remains on track for accelerated completion in 2031.
Ireland’s water company said the commencement of the early works marks a significant milestone for one of Ireland’s most important strategic infrastructure projects, which will provide essential wastewater treatment capacity to support housing, economic growth, and environmental protection across the Greater Dublin Area.
The Greater Dublin Drainage Project will deliver wastewater treatment capacity equivalent to a population of approximately 500,000 and support the delivery of up to 185,000 new homes across north Dublin and surrounding parts of Meath and Kildare.
Preparatory activities are now progressing in Abbottstown, Clonshaugh and Silloge and include archaeological investigations, access establishment and the installation of fencing and hoarding.
A Maritime Usage Licence (MUL) was granted by the Maritime Regulator in March 2026 for the marine surveys and site investigations needed for the project. The investigation works will involve the use of a temporary barge, which will be positioned offshore in Portmarnock Bay from June 2026.
Preliminary works construction is scheduled to commence by the end of this year, with the main works construction expected to begin in 2028. The project remains on track for accelerated completion in 2031.
Speaking about the project, Senior Portfolio Manager with Uisce Éireann Eoin Ahern said:
“The Greater Dublin Drainage Project is essential national infrastructure that will help unlock housing delivery and support sustainable economic growth across the Greater Dublin Area for decades to come. As population growth continues, investment in wastewater is critical to protecting public health, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring the region can continue to develop sustainably. The commencement of these preparatory works marks a vital step forward in delivery of this essential project.”
The GDD project includes:
- the development of a new regional wastewater treatment facility and sludge hub centre on a 30 hectare site at Clonshaugh;
- an underground orbital sewer network;
- a sewer to divert part of the North Fringe Sewer to the new treatment facility;
- a new pumping station at Abbotstown;
- a marine outfall pipe from the wastewater treatment facility discharging the treated water to the Irish Sea.
- a regional biosolids storage facility located at Newtown/Kilshane, Dublin
The project has been identified as the best long-term solution to meet the region’s future wastewater treatment needs. By handling the wastewater needs of the north Dublin area, the project will significantly relieve pressure on the existing Ringsend Wastewater Treatment Plant and unlock capacity for future housing. It will also protect coastal and marine waters and help Ireland meet national and EU environment standards.
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