Backyard Service Replacement Project progressing in Kilkenny

27 April 2022

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Kilkenny County Council, is replacing ageing backyard water mains and providing new service connections for customers on Michael Street, Kilkenny.

The project, which commenced this week, involves the replacement of water connections, typically made of iron or lead, that were installed in the back gardens of some older housing estates. The pipework, due to age and deteriorating condition, are a significant source of leakage and reduced levels of service. Backyard services are usually shared, running through a number of neighbouring properties, making it difficult to detect and repair leaks. Since all properties share a connection, leaks and bursts affect all properties; usually resulting in low pressure.

The works on Michael Street involve the decommissioning of ageing backyard water mains, the delivery of 235 meters of new water mains constructed along the public road, and the provision of new individual services to all properties. 

Outlining the benefits the Backyard Service Replacement Project will bring, Joe Carroll from Uisce Éireann, explained: “Replacing these old and problematic pipes on Michael Street will reduce the drinking water lost by leakage and will bring an all-round improvement to water quality for the local community. 

Steven added: “In partnership with Shareridge Ltd and Kilkenny County Council, we have been engaging with the local residents and aim to complete the works with as little disruption as possible. However, the works may involve some short-term water outages but our project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48-hours’ notice prior to any planned water outages. 

“Where watermains are being constructed, traffic management may be in place. Parking spaces may be temporarily closed in order to complete works. Local and emergency traffic will be maintained at all times.” 

Uisce Éireann’s customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit our Supply and Service Updates section or set your location on our website.

Since 2018, Uisce Éireann has invested over €500 million to upgrade the underground water network across the country through the delivery of the Leakage Reduction Programme. We are investing a further €600 million up to the end of 2024 - fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply.