Preliminary works have begun on a major upgrade of Waterford City’s wastewater network.

Uisce Éireann says site investigations are getting underway as part of the design phase of a project aimed at increasing the capacity of the city’s wastewater infrastructure and reducing the risk of flooding during periods of high demand.

The works will include upgrades to the Island View Pumping Station, as well as the wastewater network serving Knockboy, the Dunmore Road and surrounding areas.

The site investigations, which are due to begin in late July, will be carried out by Causeway Geotech Ltd. on behalf of Uisce Éireann.

The utility says the project is intended to ensure the wastewater network can support future growth in Waterford while continuing to meet environmental standards.

Once the design stage is complete, the project will move on to the statutory, regulatory and funding approval process before any construction can begin.