‘Leap of faith’ needed to help secure new wastewater schemes
Council to take part in pilot initiative
TOWNS and villages across the county could be set to benefit from a new initiative from Uisce Eireann, aimed at updating their wastewater solutions.
Having successfully gotten projects in Craughwell and Ardrahan included in Uisce Eireann’s Small Settlements Wastewater Programme, Galway County Council CEO Liam Conneally is already looking to get other projects off the ground.
“We have been discussing taking part in another initiative from Uisce Eireann, one which focuses on rapid wastewater solutions for smaller areas around the country,” he explained during a recent meeting of Galway County Council.
“They are looking at all 31 local authorities, seeing who may be interested in the new programme. We have already told them we are happy to act as a pilot for this scheme.”
The council are already benefiting from being included in Uisce Eireann’s Small Settlements Wastewater Programme which will see Galway acting as the leaders of the project in Craughwell and Ardrahan.
Uisce Eireann will offer expert technical support and secure the necessary land for the projects.
It is set to cost around €30million, with the council needing to contribute €2.6million and the rest of the funding provided by Uisce Eireann and the government.
Funding model scrutinised
The funding model came under scrutiny from many councillors during the meeting, who believed the government should pay for the entire project.
However, Mr Conneally stressed it was vital they proved they are willing to work within the terms of the agreement. It will make sure they can get funding for similar projects in the future across the county.
“It is important that we keep fighting for the towns and villages that need improved wastewater facilities,” remarked Moylough Cllr Michael Connolly.
“Towns and villages across the county are crying out for updated or new wastewater facilities. That is why it is important we take the leap of faith and take part in this new scheme, not condemn other places that might seek help through it in the future.
“It is only by trying schemes like this that we can improve infrastructure and be able to do something to help address the housing situation.”
The method of funding the projects has yet to be decided, with a loan among the current options being discussed. Once finalised, the executive will seek approval from councillors at a future plenary meeting.
“The delivery of this scheme highlights that the county is open for business for future housing developments in rural areas and gives more certainty that we can work towards larger housing projects too,” added Mr Conneally.