Delay of upgraded waste water treatment facilities in Sligo towns and villages deemed ‘frustrating’

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

The delay in delivering new waste water treatment systems in areas where funding has been committed or where existing systems are at capacity was queried at the February meeting of Sligo County Council.

Councillor Thomas Walsh sought an update from Uisce Eireann in relation to infrastructure in the county.

Cllr Walsh noted money was committed in September 2021 to the Mullaghmore project but to date planning permission has not been obtained. “It is moving very slowly,” he told the meeting.

Cllr Walsh referred to the situation in Ballintogher, noting it is “at or near capacity.” Highlighting the impact this has on the development of the village Cllr Walsh said, “Delivery is much too slow. The only way it will happen is through legislation to speed up the planning. We have land zoned in Ballintogher but the likelihood of another estate in the village is slim to none until the sewage system is improved.”

Cllr Walsh called on Government to “Look at the wider picture,” adding, “It is really frustrating.”

The motion was supported by Cllr Thomas Healy who commented, “Irish Water are holding back these communities.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.