Massive water crisis predicted in Athlone

Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink ... That"s the bizarre situation that could face Athlone in the coming years, according to a major report by a key advisory body to the Government. The report, by Forfás, outlines that Athlone will face a massive water crisis in five years, if Government investment is not channelled into the town. According to the report, by 2013, Athlone"s water treatment shortfall will be the the largest of the other 21 cities or gateway towns studied in the report. Athlone"s capacity to treat its water will be almost 40% below what"s required in five years time, according to the findings. Such a lack of sufficient water treatment capacity would spark fears of water contamination outbreaks and regular boil water notices. By 2018, Forfás predicts the town would have a 57% deficit in treatment capacity - in other words, less than half the required capacity of water treatment would be available in the town. The report also highlights that 58% of the total water supply in Athlone is unaccounted for, through either leakage from damaged or old pipelines or illegal connections. Meanwhile, Athlone will also contend with a significant overcapacity in its wastewater treatment plant, according to Forfás. Wastewater treatment is the process by which sewage, sludge and sluice waters are treated prior to discharge into, in Athlone"s case, the Shannon. At present, the town"s plant is operating at just under capacity, according to the Forfás report. But, by 2013, it will be working at 35% overcapacity - the third highest in the country"s 22 gateway towns or cities, behind Letterkenny. A lack of adequate wastewater treatment can lead to water pollution and environmental and other impacts. The revelation is sure to be seized upon as further proof of the need for the long-awaited Athlone main drainage scheme, which has been delayed by the Department of Environment for some years. Such deficits in wastewater treatment and water treatment will also significantly hinder Athlone"s ability to grow - with planning permissions for residential and significant industrial developments likely to be refused or delayed. A spokesperson for Westmeath County Council was not available to comment on the report"s findings.