Measures stepped up to tackle intermittent water discolouration on the Cavan Hill network ahead of summer

Uisce Éireann is starting the summer season by prioritising works to proactively address intermittent water discolouration affecting some customers on the Cavan Hill water supply.

Discolouration issues affecting the Cavan Hill supply, which supplies Dundalk and surrounding areas, are typically experienced as rising temperatures over the summer months are associated with increased levels of manganese in raw water, resulting in instances of discoloration.

A programme of proactive network flushing will commence next week to help get ahead of the issue. These targeted flushing works will be carried out on a phased basis over an eight week period.

James O’Hagan, Uisce Éireann’s Operations Manager, said “The increase in water temperatures during the summer months leads to intermittent instances of discolouration on the Cavan Hill water network. For the last two years, we have been carrying out an annual 16-week targeted flushing programme on the water network which continues to be effective in reducing instances of discolouration, and we have rolled out the same programme as a proactive measure coming into this summer.”

Our crews are heading to Dublin Road and the Inner Relief Road next week, working into Muirhavenmore, Tom Bellew Avenue, Avenue Road, Bay Estate and Coes Road.

James continued “In tandem with network flushing, a project to upgrade Cavan Hill water treatment plant is due to commence in the coming months. This project will involve upgrading filters to help remove manganese from the water, improving overall water quality.”

Protecting public health is the top priority for Uisce Éireann. Regular sampling is carried out on the network, along with operational sampling at the water treatment plant. This provides reassurance that the water is compliant once running clear and assists with investigations into discolouration reports. Uisce Éireann reiterates its advice to customers not to drink discoloured water. When water is discoloured, we recommend people to run the cold water tap in the kitchen for several minutes, as this will usually restore water to a clear colour. The water is safe to drink once it is running clear.  Should discolouration persist after twenty minutes customers are encouraged to contact our customer team on 1800 278 278.

As part of Uisce Éireann's continuing commitment to keep the community informed, we will continue to engage with all local elected representatives and issue updates throughout the flushing programme, and as the design of the water treatment plant upgrade progresses.