Overview of On-Site Treatment Systems

Background

The issue of on-site treatment systems for rural houses is a very topical one, and has received extensive coverage recently in the print and broadcast media.

In cases where houses require to be located in the countryside, (i.e. where no sewerage is available), it is necessary to provide a specific on-site treatment system for each dwelling house. Approx. 18,000 new on site systems are installed annually in Ireland.  In deciding on the location of such systems a local authority must have regard in the protection of the environment.

The crucial elements to be considered are:

• Proper site assessment
• Proper system design
• Proper installation
• Proper maintenance

Potential detrimental impacts would include public health hazard, surface and groundwater pollution and nuisance. It is important to emphasise that Designers/ Planning Consultants have a responsibility to ensure that site tests are conducted properly and accurately.

Planning Permission

In the pressure to obtain planning permission and build, many applicants do not consider the implications of their on-site treatment systems. A long term view is necessary to ensure that there is no risk of water pollution or nuisance from these systems.

Unfortunately, many applications have been found to be unsatisfactory because of:

• Inadequate/Inaccurate Information
• Site Assessment not carried out in accordance with proper technical standards
• Unsuitable Sites Selected.

This can often result in frustrating delays in the planning process, often with requests for further information. This is a waste of an applicant’s time and money, and can be avoided with proper preparation.

Panel of Consultants

Sligo County Council has formed a panel of consultants with particular expertise in the area of assessing the suitability of sites for treating effluent. The Council requires that applicants for one off houses should engage the services of one of these consultants to carry out the site assessment and make recommendations.

This panel is open-ended in that any consultant who acquires the appropriate qualifications can be added to the panel. This will ensure that there is an adequate service available to the public.

The panel is available from:
Planning Department, Sligo County Council at (071) 9111217
 or
Sligo County Council’s website at www.sligococo.ie