Three Waterford locations have been identified for priority water and wastewater investment aimed at supporting future housing development.

Waterford City, Dungarvan and Tramore are among 72 cities, towns and villages selected by Uisce Éireann as part of an additional €2 billion Government funding programme.

Waterford City is one of five cities identified for priority investment, alongside Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway.

Dungarvan has been included among 32 Key Towns identified through regional and local development plans.

Tramore is one of 24 High Projected Growth Areas, which have been selected based on significant levels of expected housing growth.

Uisce Éireann says the 72 locations were chosen following a review of national, regional and local development plans, focusing on areas where additional water and wastewater capacity could help unlock housing and support future development.

Of the additional €2 billion, €1.7 billion will be invested across priority growth locations.

A further €300 million has been allocated to support housing and development in rural communities by providing additional water and wastewater capacity.

The funding comes on top of Uisce Éireann’s wider €10.2 billion investment programme under the National Development Plan.

Sean Laffey, Asset Management and Sustainability Director with Uisce Éireann, said the additional investment will help create the capacity needed for new homes and growing communities.

He said identifying the priority locations will also provide greater certainty for local authorities, Government departments and developers involved in housing delivery.