Durres Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrading and Wastewater Network Rehabilitation in City's Historical Area

Project

This project concerns the improvement and expansion of wastewater collection and treatment infrastructure in the metropolitan area of Durrës, one of Albania's main urban and economic centres. The project focuses on modernizing the sewerage network and upgrading wastewater pumping stations.

The project aims to improve public health, protect coastal and inland water bodies, and support sustainable urban development by reducing pollution and providing reliable wastewater services. It also promotes compliance with EU environmental standards and integrates renewable energy generation through biogas recovery.

Activities

The Activities supported by the WBIF grant covers:

1. Project Preparation and Design:

- Feasibility Study, including cost–benefit and social analyses;

- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) addressing environmental, social, and public health aspects;

- Preliminary Design for sewerage network improvements and integration with the Durrës Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP).

2. Sewerage Network Construction:

- Installation of HDPE and reinforced concrete pipes;

- Construction of manholes for access and maintenance;

- Rehabilitation of three existing wastewater pumping stations (WWPS) and construction of one new WWPS, including pumps, civil works, power supply, SCADA systems, and associated infrastructure.

3. Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades:

- Installation of new coarse and fine screens and aerated grit chambers;

- Construction of four new primary and secondary sedimentation tanks;

- Repurposing the existing 10-hectare wetland into a landscaped green buffer zone to support water management, biodiversity, and public amenity.

The investment will improve the efficiency and reliability of wastewater services, including tertiary treatment, and generate renewable energy through biogas recovery. By modernising the sewerage network and WWTP facilities, the project will provide better access to services for residents and businesses, and strengthen environmental quality. 

Context and Relevance

The project is co-financed by the European Union through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) directly contributing to the implementation of the Global Gateway strategy.