Public asked to have their say on major north Mayo/south Sligo project

Uisce Éireann has commenced a non-statutory public consultation on plans for a major upgrade to the Ballina and Lough Talt Water Supply, an important step forward for North Mayo and South Sligo.

The consultation, which runs until Monday, 20 April, marks the next stage in delivering a significant investment that will enhance the resilience of the water supply in Ballina and surrounding communities while securing a sustainable water source for the Lough Talt Water Supply Scheme.

As part of the consultation, members of the public are invited to share their views on the proposed upgrade works. Feedback received will help inform Uisce Éireann’s planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála, ensuring the final project reflects the needs and priorities of those who live and work in the area.

To support the consultation, Uisce Éireann will be hosting a public information event for the local community on Wednesday, 15 April in Kennedy Glasgow House, Quay Road, Ballina.

Between 4pm and 8pm the project team will be available to answer questions and outline the benefits of the proposed project for the region.

This is an exciting project with many benefits for communities in the North Mayo/South Sligo region. As part of the project, additional treatment capacity and treated water storage will be provided at Lisglennon Water Treatment Plant.

Ballina’s ageing water network will be upgraded, a new trunk main connecting Lisglennon to Ballina and onto Bonniconlon and Lough Talt laid along with additional network storage at Bonniconlon and Lough Talt.

The capacity provided will support future growth in the region, while ending water abstraction from Lough Talt will allow natural lake levels to be restored and deliver significant ecological benefits for local habitats and wildlife.

Speaking about the project, John McElwaine, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: “We have been progressing the development of this vital upgrade for North Mayo and South Sligo for some time and we’re delighted to now begin the consultation phase. We’re looking forward to discussing the project further with the local communities in the coming weeks.”

Further details of the project, including how to participate in the consultation and the upcoming public information event, are available at Ballina and Lough Talt Water Supply Upgrade Project | Uisce Eireann