Kinnegar WasteWater Treatment Works (WwTW) was the first Private Finance Initiative water project to be signed in Northern Ireland. Coastal Clearwater Ltd (CCWL), the Special Purpose Company set up for the project and in which Lagan SCG Ltd have a 100% share, signed the contract with the Water Service to Design, Build, Finance and Operate the plan for 25 years.
The project included the design and construction of a treatment works catering for a population of in excess of 100,000. The site was an existing disposal works on the County Down coast. The new works required the upgrading of the existing plant to ensure compliance with EU discharge requirements. Thereafter CCWL were responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the plant for the remainder of the contract period. Financing for the project was 90% debt provided by Dresdner Bank and 10% equity from the sponsors. Payment is based on treatment of flow and Load (Suspended Solids and BOD) entering the plant with deductions across 36 parameters for non performance.
New works were carried out by Charles Brand ltd and completed in 2000.
The plant has been operational from April 2000 and the concession will transfer to the Water Services Department at the end of the 25 year contract.
LaganMEICA Ltd was established to carry out the daily operation and maintenance of the Kinnegar Treatment Works. Formally a joint venture between Charles Brand, and United Utilities Services Ltd, LaganMEICA Ltd operates the plant on a daily basis to ensure the plant meets the compliance standards in the Contract.
The company also has responsibility for the long term maintenance of the plant and for advising the client on the longer term refurbishments works required.
Operation and Maintenance of the new plant began in 2000 and LaganMEICA ltd have a 25 year contract to operate the plant.
LaganMEICA Ltd is also responsible for the transport of treated sludge to the Water Service’s incinerator and screening and grit to disposal sites.
