A critical infrastructure project designed to secure the water supply for the Greater Dublin Area could cost as much as €10 billion, according to worst-case scenario estimates.
The ambitious proposal involves constructing a 170-kilometre pipeline to bring treated water from the lower River Shannon at Parteen Basin in County Tipperary to Peamount in Dublin.
The plan aims to ensure a sustainable water supply for the region, capable of supporting the needs of up to half of Ireland’s population.
The proposed pipeline has been under consideration for years as part of efforts to address long-term water shortages in the Greater Dublin Area, which has experienced increased demand due to population growth, urban development, and climate-related challenges.
However, concerns about the project's cost have come to the forefront following a risk analysis shared in correspondence between the Department of Housing and the Public Accounts Committee.
Initial estimates placed the project’s cost at €3.3 billion, but updated projections indicate the bill could rise significantly, reaching as high as €10.4 billion in a worst-case scenario. This increase reflects potential risks associated with construction, engineering complexities, and inflationary pressures.
According to reports from The Irish Times, the pipeline will source treated water from the Parteen Basin, a location chosen for its capacity to provide a consistent and high-quality water supply. The water will then be transported to Dublin, benefiting millions of residents and businesses in the Greater Dublin Area and surrounding counties.
The project has drawn criticism from environmental groups and local communities along the proposed pipeline route.
Opponents have raised concerns about the potential environmental impact on the River Shannon and surrounding ecosystems. Additionally, questions have been raised about whether such a large-scale project represents the most cost-effective solution to Ireland’s water supply challenges.
