Athlone’s €114m main drainage scheme on schedule

The completion of 80% of essential works in the Athlone Main Drainage Project has been welcomed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke.

The delivery of the €114 million project remains on target, with works expected to conclude by the end of 2025.

Minister Burke said: “I am delighted with the progress made to date in this hugely ambitious plan from Uisce Éireann, which aims to resolve recurring drainage issues in Athlone that have undoubtedly affected everyone in some way or another.

“This year, all tunnel shafts in the town have been completed, along with an emergency storm overflow chamber and headwall in the River Shannon – among the many targets achieved.

“It’s fantastic to see over 80% of the works completed to date, and I’m pleased that the project is on track for completion by the end of 2025.

“I would like to thank everyone in Athlone for their patience regarding some of the disruptions these works have caused since the project got underway in 2023.

“I have no doubt that the benefits of the drainage project will be felt throughout the area for decades to come, in terms of economic development, regional growth, and sustainability.”

According to Uisce Éireann, next year will see the completion of civil works, the reinstatement of work areas, and the testing and commissioning of the project.

Key areas of focus include Golden Island and Coosan West Pumping Stations, the decommissioning of existing pump stations at Abbey Road, Clonown Road, West Bank, and Golden Island; and completion of the remaining three tunnel drives from the Strand Car Park, including the Upper Shannon Crossing.