Uisce Éireann has confirmed that approval has been granted for a constructed wetland wastewater treatment plant in Grangemockler, Co. Tipperary.

The facility is a nature-based system designed to resemble and operate like a natural wetland. It will provide a treatment process that significantly cuts energy consumption and carbon emissions compared with conventional plants. The wetland will also act as a carbon sink, helping to offset emissions from other sources, and will create capacity to enable sustainable local development.

The scheme will consist of a series of vegetated ponds planted with native species to enhance biodiversity. Because only limited infrastructure sits above ground, the ponds are expected to have a minimal visual impact on the surrounding landscape. Delivery of the project includes a new constructed wetland wastewater treatment plant, a new pumping station and rising main, and the decommissioning of three existing wastewater treatment plants through the construction of new collector sewers.

David McLoone, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, said: "We are delighted that we can now forge ahead with the development of this sustainable wastewater infrastructure in Grangemockler. This project will play a key role in protecting the local environment, including the Currasilla Upper stream, that is within the lower River Suir Special Area of Conservation (SAC), while also promoting local biodiversity."

With planning permission now secured, construction is scheduled to begin later in 2026, with Stantec and Ward & Burke Construction Ltd. collaborating to deliver the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann.

The Grangemockler project forms part of Uisce Éireann's ongoing multi-million-euro investment to modernise wastewater infrastructure across County Tipperary. Recent projects have been completed in Newport, Ballina and Cahir; upgrades are continuing in Fethard, Nenagh and Kilsheelan, where planning permission was recently granted; and site investigations have concluded for a network upgrade in Thurles.