Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, has renewed his criticism of Uisce Éireann over their continued delays in undertaking the urgent works required at the Murrough wastewater pumping station in Wicklow Town, as foul odours emanating from the station continue to impact nearby residents and those wishing to enjoy the Murrough amenity.
The comments come following further correspondence from Uisce Éireann confirming that the urgently required upgrade is now progressing through the procurement process, with works expected to commence at some point next year, subject to the completion of the tender process.
While welcoming confirmation that the project is finally moving, Deputy Brady has expressed serious frustration at the length of time it is taking to deliver a permanent solution to a problem that has persisted for many years, and the repeated slippage in the proposed timeline for works.
Teachta Brady said:
“I have been raising the issue of foul odours from the Murrough pumping station with both Uisce Éireann and the EPA since 2019.
“While some minor works have been undertaken following my repeated engagement with the EPA, these have provided only temporary relief and have done little to address the underlying problem.
“Residents continue to endure recurring foul odours, which is simply unacceptable.
“Following my intervention, the EPA carried out audits of the Greystones and Wicklow Town wastewater treatment plants in January 2025, and these recommended independent monitoring to establish the extent of the odour issues and identify the corrective measures required.
“That monitoring subsequently confirmed the need for a new odour abatement system at the Murrough pumping station to replace the existing ageing infrastructure.
“Uisce Éireann stated in May 2025 that upgrades at the station would be prioritised. However, despite the problem having been identified and the need for a permanent solution clearly established, progress has been far too slow.
“In its latest response, Uisce Éireann has confirmed that the upgrade is now progressing through procurement, with works expected to commence next year, subject to the tender process being completed.
“While it is welcome to finally see some movement on this, residents have been left waiting for far too long.
“A commitment that works will begin sometime next year, without a firm start or completion date, is simply not good enough.
“Residents deserve better.
“Uisce Éireann has also outlined interim measures currently in place, including daily site inspections, routine monitoring of the odour control units and the replacement of treatment media when required.
“While these steps are necessary, they are no substitute for the permanent upgrade that has already been identified as urgently required.
“It is particularly frustrating that the issue can be monitored on a daily basis and the long-term problem observed, yet residents are still left waiting for meaningful action.
“The Murrough is an important local amenity, enjoyed by people from across Wicklow Town and beyond, and the ongoing odour problems are undermining people's enjoyment of the area and continuing to affect the quality of life of those living nearby.
“Uisce Éireann must now ensure there are no further unnecessary delays.
“Residents need a firm commitment that the works will be completed without further delay.
“I will continue to press Uisce Éireann until a permanent solution is delivered.
“The people of Wicklow Town have waited long enough, and this issue cannot be allowed to drag on any further.”
Ends