Dunshaughlin looks forward to improved water quality as works set to begin
16 February 2022
Homes and businesses in Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath can look forward to improved water quality and a more reliable water supply with water mains upgrade works due to get underway in the coming weeks, as part of Uisce Éireann’s national Leakage Reduction Programme.
Working in partnership with Meath County Council, Uisce Éireann is replacing approximately 700m of old and problematic cast iron water mains along Main Street (R147) in Dunshaughlin to provide a more safe and secure water supply for customers. The works will improve water quality, and help reduce the high level of leakage and bursts impacting customers.
Outlining the benefits of these works Matt Thomson, Leakage Reduction Programme Regional Lead with Uisce Éireann, explained: “These essential works will benefit customers by replacing ageing water mains with new and improved modern pipes. The new water mains will improve water quality and reduce the high level of leakage in the area, and increase security of supply and reliability.
“The works may involve some short-term water interruptions, however, the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water interruptions. We understand that this type of work can be inconvenient and works crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption these necessary works cause.
Matt added: “These ongoing projects are part of a significant investment by Uisce Éireann to upgrade the water network across Meath and we would like to thank customers for their continued cooperation and patience while we continue to upgrade and improve the water supply in county.”
GMC Utilities Ltd are contracted to carry out the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann which are scheduled to begin in the coming weeks and should be completed in May.
This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is continuing to work in partnership with Meath County Council to reduce leaks every day. Fixing leaks can be complicated with over 63,000km of water pipe in Ireland. Most leaks aren’t visible, resulting in precious water being lost but we are making progress. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2021 it was reduced to 38%. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 32% by the end of 2024.
Customers can phone Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or check out the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website for regular updates.
The National Leakage Reduction Programme helps provide a more reliable water supply to Irish communities by reducing high levels of leakage and improving water quality. Its delivery represents an investment of over €500 million between 2017 and the end of 2021, and Uisce Éireann are investing a further €600 million up to the end of 2024 to reduce leakage and replace old pipes on the water network.
For more information on reducing leaks visit our National Leakage Reduction Programme page.
Uisce Éireann is responsible for the delivery of all public water and wastewater services in Ireland. We are committed to continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support the growth needed in housing and across our economy, while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies.