Improved water supply in Westmeath as programme of works for 2021 completed

22 December 2021

Westmeath communities are now enjoying an improved water supply

As the year draws to a close, Uisce Éireann is proud to have recently completed a number of important water saving projects in Westmeath.  

By targeting and replacing ageing water mains in these areas, Uisce Éireann has not only put a stop to clean water being lost underground but has given homes and businesses a more reliable supply by helping to prevent bursts and outages.

Over 2KM of problematic water mains which were impacting customers’ supplies were replaced in Ballynacarrigy in Mullingar; Mullenoran in Bunbrosna; and Castlepollard Road in Knockdrin. All lead service connections on the public roadway were also replaced as part of the works. 

Speaking about the project, Matt Thomson, Leakage Reduction Programme Regional Lead with Uisce Éireann, said: “There were considerable water network issues impacting these communities. Reducing leakage is not just about replacing old pipes or fixing bursts, it involves detailed planning, collaboration and a number of different work streams which will make the most impact on leakage levels in a given area. Visible bursts on the pipes are easy to find and fix, but hidden, underground leaks are a bigger challenge."

In thanking the public for their cooperation and patience, Matt continued: “Residents in these areas will have noticed an immediate improvement in the consistency of their water supply as a result of the works undertaken. For years they were impacted by frequent bursts but we are pleased to have now completed these essential projects before the end of the year. On behalf of Uisce Éireann, I would like to thank these communities for their patience and cooperation and wish them a safe and peaceful Christmas.”

Also underway is the replacement of almost 1.2km of old and problematic water mains along the R390 in Ballinea in Mullingar with works expected to be completed in early 2022.

This project is part of Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme. As the year comes to a close, Uisce Éireann will have invested €500m in reducing the level of leakage across the country by fixing and replacing old and damaged water mains. This work will ensure a safe, reliable water supply which is vital for our health, our environment and our growing population and economy.

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.