Dublin Chamber expresses serious concern at delay to Greater Dublin Drainage Project

Dublin Chamber has today voiced serious concern at confirmation that the Greater Dublin Drainage Project has been further delayed due to a judicial review.

With the region’s wastewater system already operating at capacity, the absence of new treatment facilities restricts the delivery of much-needed housing and places a cap on economic growth.

Commenting on the development, Stephen Browne, Head of Public Affairs at Dublin Chamber said, “We are extremely disappointed to see this project facing yet another delay. Our members consistently tell us that infrastructure bottlenecks are one of the greatest threats to doing business in Ireland. The Greater Dublin Drainage Project is essential if we are to unlock the supply of new housing across the Dublin region. At present, many developments cannot progress because the wastewater network simply does not have the capacity. This is directly contributing to the housing shortage, which is the single biggest challenge facing employers and the wider economy.”

Browne continued, “This is not just an infrastructure project. It is a fundamental requirement for building the homes that workers and families need, and for allowing businesses to expand. Every setback has a knock-on effect on housing delivery, on competitiveness, and on Dublin’s ability to grow sustainably.”

“Dublin Chamber is calling on Government to treat the delivery of the Greater Dublin Drainage Project as a matter of national priority, and to ensure that planning and judicial processes are reformed in line with the Planning and Development Act 2024 so that essential infrastructure can move forward without unnecessary delay.”

Browne concluded “For too long, Ireland has struggled to deliver major infrastructure at the pace our economy requires. If we are serious about addressing the housing crisis and supporting long-term competitiveness, projects such as the Greater Dublin Drainage must be delivered without further delay.”