Boost for coastal water network
UISCE Éireann, working in partnership with Wexford County Council, is replacing approximately 1.6km of old watermains in Duncannon.
The watermains that were prone to frequent bursts and leakage are being replaced with new modern pipes. Once complete, the works will provide a more reliable water supply and reduce high levels of leakage.
The works take place along a section the R733 in Ballyvaroge from the T- junction at the R737 and end at the R734 crossroads. These works commenced in late March and are scheduled to be completed by May of this year.
Once completed, customers in this area will enjoy an improved water supply with less disruption. Sharerdige Civil Engineering are contracted to carry out the work on behalf of Uisce Éireann.
Commenting on the project, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, Dave Murphy said “To facilitate the safe delivery of the project and to minimise impact on the community, areas of work will be limited to short sections. Traffic management will be in place at this time, in the form of a stop/go system and traffic lights. Hours of work will be 8 a. m. to 5 p. m. ( Monday – Friday) and 8 a. m. to 1 p. m. ( Saturday). Local and emergency traffic will always be maintained.”
Dave said: “This essential work is part of a significant investment by Uisce Éireann to improve the water network across the country, prioritising investment where it is needed most enabling these communities to thrive.”
This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Wexford County Council to reduce leaks every day.
“Fixing leaks can be complicated. We have over 63,000 km of water pipes underground in Ireland – enough to circle the earth one and a half times. Most leaks aren’t visible, resulting in precious water being lost but we are making progress. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46pc, by the end of 2022 it was 3pc. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25pc by the end of 2030.”
The works may involve some short- term water shut offs and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water shut offs. “Uisce Éireann understands that this type of work can be inconvenient and work crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption.”
Customers can phone Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website for regular updates.
Minister of State James Browne said: “I’m glad to see this continued Government investment in public services in the Duncannon area. Just over a year ago, €15.6 million was invested in constructing a new, state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant in Arthurstown. Its three pumping stations and sewer pipelines serve the communities of Arthurstown, Ballyhack and Duncannon.”
“Numerous constituents have been in contact with me regarding frequent bursts of watermains, which affected supply to householders in the Duncannon area.
“It’s positive that once these works have been completed, there should be much less disruption to the water supply.”