Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) has invested £9.7 million to design and construct a works, which not only serves the needs of the current population of 16,000, but will meet the needs of the future population until 2022.
Trevor Haslett, Director of E&P, NI Water, said: "Development of the new state-of-the-art treatment facility will be taking place on the existing site and therefore construction work will be co-ordinated alongside current operations.
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"In keeping with similar investment in water and sewerage infrastructure across Northern Ireland, Downpatrick Wastewater Treatment Works requires upgrading to meet the needs of the future population demand.
"This is just one of the many projects being undertaken by NI Water to deliver a 21st century infrastructure for Northern Ireland."
Down District Councillor Margaret Ritchie MLA was on site to witness the beginning of construction.
Ms Ritchie said: "I am delighted that these Works are underway and that we are making firm moves towards a modern and sufficient sewerage infrastructure to support our growing population and tourism industry.
"I believe that once completed it will make a huge difference to the local community."
NI Water has said the works, which are due for completion in June 2010, will bring significant benefits for the local population, its economy and the environment, while ensuring that wastewater treatment in Downpatrick complies with all current national and European regulations.
This project is a working partnership between the client Northern Ireland Water, the joint venture Contractor Biwater/ Graham and the Project Manager McAdam Design.
(PR/JM)
