Crews working to repair trunk main affecting Ashbourne and Ratoath as quickly as possible following a major burst

11 August 2023

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section.

Uisce Eireann has identified a burst on the Staleen to Windmill Hill trunk water main at Abbey Road, Duleek. Every effort is being made to maintain supply to as many customers as possible.

Some customers in Ratoath, Ashbourne, Kilbride and surrounding areas may be impacted by lower-than-normal water pressure and in some instances, particularly on higher ground, may experience intermittent water outages. Uisce Eireann is appealing to all customers to conserve water to help preserve reservoir levels.

Dedicated water service crews have mobilised to undertake the repairs as efficiently and as quickly as possible. To facilitate the safe delivery of these repairs a road closure along Abbey Road, Duleek will be required while repairs are completed. Local and emergency traffic will be maintained.

Typically, it takes two to three hours following repairs for normal supply to restore to all customers affected by an unplanned outage. 

Speaking about the burst, Tselopile Tlou, Uisce Éireann, said: “The repairs are being conducted as quickly as possible to minimise disruption to the community and restore water for all customers, they are expected to be completed by 6 pm this evening."  

“We understand the inconvenience unplanned outages can have on customers and we appreciate their patience as we work to repair the burst and return normal water supply.”

Tselopile added, “We are appealing to all customers in the surrounding area to continue to conserve water to protect levels at Windmill Hill Reservoir. While handwashing remains a priority, simple water conservation efforts can have a big impact on reducing demand on the supply. Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and shaving can save up to 6 litres of water per minute. Taking a shower instead of a bath or using a watering can rather than a hose when gardening can also make a big difference in water use.”

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communications from us for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours. 

Our customer care team is available to help 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For further updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website.

For more tips on how to conserve water in your home please visit our Conservation page.