Company seeks planning permission to expand at Carnbane
An engineering firm specialising in water and wastewater infrastructure has lodged a planning application to expand its base at Carnbane Business Park just outside Newry, signalling a vote of confidence in the local economy.
Water Solutions Ireland (WSI) said it had submitted proposals to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for new premises at the business park, where it is already located. If planning permission is granted, the company has said construction is expected to be completed in July 2028.
Growth from small team to regional contractor
The firm, which carries out process, mechanical and electrical engineering for water and wastewater projects across the UK and Ireland, has recorded substantial growth in recent years. According to the company, its workforce expanded from a team of six in 2018 to 47 employees by 2026, and its turnover has increased as it broadened its regional presence.
The application, lodged on 31 July, proposes larger premises at the same Carnbane location. The business park is owned by economic development agency Invest NI, and WSI said remaining at Carnbane reflected both its history and ambition.
Company comments and local significance
"The development of our new headquarters marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Water Solutions Ireland... Carnbane Business Park has been an important part of our journey since 2014, and we are delighted to remain in the area as we create a modern facility that will support our people, our clients and our continued growth for many years to come."
The comment came from Patrick Cunningham, contracts director at Water Solutions Ireland. The company described the planned scheme as a "significant milestone" in its continued growth and long-term commitment to the Newry region, and said the development would provide the "space, flexibility and capacity" needed to support its next phase.
Financial picture and planning timetable
WSI’s abridged financial statements for 2024, filed at Companies House, show shareholders’ funds of £1 million. The planning application will now be considered by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council under the usual local planning process.
- Location: Carnbane Business Park (Invest NI ownership)
- Planning application lodged: 31 July 2026
- Workforce growth: from 6 (2018) to 47 (2026)
- Target completion if approved: July 2028
| Year / Milestone | Detail |
|---|---|
| 2014 | WSI established presence at Carnbane Business Park |
| 2018 | Workforce recorded at six employees |
| 2024 | Companies House: shareholders' funds £1m (abridged accounts) |
| 31 July 2026 | Planning application lodged with council |
| July 2028 | Planned construction completion (if permission granted) |
What this means for Newry
The proposed headquarters would keep and enlarge an existing local employer on a high-profile business estate. For Newry, the development could underpin further skilled jobs in engineering and project delivery tied to water infrastructure — a sector that has seen demand across the UK and Ireland.
As the application proceeds through the council, interests likely to follow the outcome will include local residents, the business community and economic development bodies. Carnbane’s ownership by Invest NI means the site forms part of the wider regional strategy for supporting company expansion and inward investment.
Formal planning consideration will assess the scheme against local planning policies, transport and environmental impacts, and any representations received during the statutory consultation period. The council’s decision will determine whether WSI can proceed to the construction phase envisaged for completion in 2028.
