Kilpatrick customers set to enjoy more reliable water supply

17 April 2023

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Westmeath County Council, is replacing approximately 2.3 kilometres of problematic old watermains in Kilpatrick, Mullingar, Co Westmeath that were prone to frequent bursts and leakage which caused water supply disruptions for customers in the area.

The mains that are being replaced are from Lynn Road to Kilpatrick Railway Bridge, Mullingar. The works which commenced last week will be completed by the end of June of this year. Once completed customers in this area will enjoy an improved water supply with less disruption. GMC Utilities Group Ltd are contracted to carry out the work on behalf of Uisce Éireann.

This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Westmeath County Council to reduce leaks every day. Fixing leaks can be complicated with over 63,000 km of water pipes 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 38%. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25% by the end of 2030.

Commenting on the project Matt Thomson, Leakage Reduction Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann said: “To facilitate the safe delivery of the works, there will be some short-term local road closures and traffic management in place. The community will be notified of this in advance. Alternative routes will be available, and diversions will be clearly sign-posted. Local and emergency access will be maintained at all times." 

“Customers can phone Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or check out the Supply and Service Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website for regular updates.”

“This mains replacement work is part of a significant investment by Uisce Éireann to upgrade the water network in Westmeath and we would like to thank customers in advance for their cooperation and patience while we complete these essential works.”

The works may involve some short-term water shut offs and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water shut offs. Uisce Éireann understands that this type of work can be inconvenient and work crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption.

The works also involve laying new water service connections from the public water main in the road to customers’ property boundaries and connecting it to the customer’s water supply. Where the existing service connections on the public side are lead these are being replaced.

For more information on reducing leaks visit our National Leakage Reduction Programme page.

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment. To find out more visit the Uisce Éireann website.