We are delighted that Coffey has been shortlisted in the Irish Construction Excellence Awards in the Civil Engineering category for the Enfield Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion, delivered in partnership with Uisce Éireann.
This project was about more than increasing treatment capacity. It was a vital step in delivering resilient wastewater infrastructure that supports local communities while protecting one of Ireland’s most sensitive river environments.
A key innovation was the introduction of 11 Sludge Drying Reed Beds, now the largest nature based sludge treatment system within Uisce Éireann’s portfolio. This low energy, chemical free solution removes the need for mechanical dewatering while reducing environmental impact.
The benefits are significant:
• Eliminates approximately 155 HGV sludge journeys each year
• Saves more than 48,750 kWh of energy across the system lifecycle
• Provides a sustainable, nature based approach to sludge management
Delivering the project required close collaboration and careful planning across multiple partners. Key milestones included:
• A 144 week live operations and maintenance period, maintaining uninterrupted service while new assets were constructed and commissioned
• Flood resilient design to a 1 in 1000 year standard, protecting critical infrastructure along the River Blackwater
• Trenchless river crossings to safeguard sensitive aquatic habitats
• Strong collaboration between Uisce Éireann, specialist designers and environmental partners
• A safety first culture that resulted in zero Lost Time Incidents
The result is a high performing, lower carbon wastewater asset that supports regional growth while strengthening environmental protection.
This nomination reflects the commitment of the Coffey team and our partners to deliver infrastructure that serves communities today while protecting the environment for future generations.
This project is also in the running for Project of the Year, and public voting is now open. If you believe in the value of sustainable, nature‑based engineering, we’d appreciate your support. You can vote here: https://iceawards.ie/vote/
Best of luck to the project team and our colleagues in Uisce Éireann who are participating in the finalist interviews today ahead of the ICE Awards Gala on 28 May.
