Investment continues in Cork with upgrades in Fermoy and Kanturk on the horizon

20 December 2022

Safeguarding the water supply in Cork remains a vital focus for Uisce Éireann with upgrade works due to kick off in Fermoy and Kanturk in early January. The works are part of a national programme to drive down leakage and reduce the number of bursts and unplanned outages impacting the community. 

Uisce Éireann is replacing over 4km of aging water mains in Knockacappul, Fermoy and almost 5km in Paal East, Kanturk. 

The old and declining water mains are being replaced with new modern pipework to provide a more reliable water supply, improve water quality and reduce the high levels of leakage impacting customers.

The works in Paal East, Kanturk, are expected to be completed by the end of April while the Knockacappul works are expected to be completed by the end of May and are being carried out as part of Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme.

Speaking about the planned works, Steven Blennerhassett, Uisce Éireann, said, “Replacing these ageing water mains in Knockacappul and Paal East is another critical step in conserving our most precious resource and eliminating existing leaks which have been a source of disruption for customers. With the replacement of almost 9km of old water mains, we aim to improve water quality and provide a more secure reliable water supply for both communities."

“For us to complete these works safely, traffic management will be necessary. We wish to thank customers in advance for their ongoing support and patience as we deliver these necessary works to safeguard the water supply.”  

For Knockacappul, the section of works will take place along the Gurrane/Knockacappul Road (L5652) and L58701/L5870 roads. To facilitate the works, the Gurrane/Knockacappul Road (L5652) will remain closed from early-January to late-February and the L58701/L5879 roads from mid-February to late-May.

For Paal East, the Mill Road/Paal (L1025) will remain closed from its junction with Percival Street to the Dromalore Road (L1024) from early-January to early-February while the works are taking place. A second road closure will take place from late-January to late-April along the L1023 Coolclogh/Garraveasogre Road to facilitate works on this section of road. Diversions will be in place for both projects however, local and emergency access will always be maintained. 

The works are being carried out on behalf of Uisce Éireann and Cork County Council by Ward and Burke Construction.

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 €250 million every year up to the end of 2030 - fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply.

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.