NI Water has begun a £6 million project to replace the 35-year-old wastewater treatment works in Robinsonstown, outside Portadown. The new facility incorporates a plant-based treatment process on land next to the existing site.

Sean Milligan, NI Water Senior Project Manager, stated that the process uses plants in reed beds, a method tested across Europe for rural areas with available land. He noted that it treats wastewater to environmental standards with fewer mechanical parts, reducing maintenance needs.

The upgrade will double the capacity of the current system and support local development for 20 years. Milligan added that it produces higher-quality effluent, integrates into the landscape, and boosts biodiversity.

GEDA Construction from Coalisland and Water Solutions Ireland from Newry handle construction. McAdam from Belfast provides technical and project management support. The existing works will operate until the new facility opens in autumn 2027.