Overview
Wicklow Waste Water Treatment Plant serves approximately 26,500 people in County Wicklow, Ireland. Located near the coast, it operates under EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive standards.
Wicklow Waste Water Treatment Plant is a municipal facility serving the town of Wicklow and surrounding areas in County Wicklow, Ireland. The plant serves a population of approximately 26,500, classifying it as a medium agglomeration under EU regulations. As an Irish wastewater treatment plant, it operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for discharges to freshwater and estuaries, and more advanced treatment for sensitive areas. The plant discharges treated effluent into the Irish Sea via the local coastal environment. The receiving waters support diverse marine life and are part of the broader Irish Sea ecosystem, which is important for fisheries and migratory species. The plant's location near the coast means its discharge can affect local water quality and coastal habitats.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the Irish Sea, a semi-enclosed sea that connects to the Atlantic Ocean. The coastal waters near Wicklow support diverse marine life, including fish, crustaceans, and seabirds. The area is ecologically sensitive due to its role as a habitat for migratory species and its proximity to spawning grounds. Proper treatment is essential to protect water quality and the health of the downstream marine environment.
Frequently asked questions
The plant is located in The Murrough, Wicklow Urban ED, County Wicklow, Ireland. It serves the town of Wicklow and surrounding areas.
The plant serves approximately 26,526 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under EU regulations.
The plant discharges treated effluent into the Irish Sea via the coastal environment near Wicklow. The discharge point is within 50 km of the coast.
As an Irish plant, it operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which mandates secondary treatment for discharges to coastal waters and more stringent treatment if the area is designated as sensitive.
Under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, plants serving populations between 10,000 and 150,000 are required to have secondary treatment. For discharges to sensitive areas, additional nutrient removal may be required.