Next phase of East Meath’s Windmill Hill Reservoir & Trunk Watermain to Ratoath project

12 May 2023

The next pipe laying phase of East Meath’s Windmill Hill Reservoir & Trunk Watermain to Ratoath Project is about to commence. This Project will increase storage capacity significantly at Windmill Hill Reservoir and replace the existing watermain between the Reservoir and Ratoath Village.

This project involves replacing over 7km of problematic, old watermains to Ratoath that are prone to frequent bursts and cause water supply disruptions for customers in Ratoath, Kilbride and Ashbourne. These new watermains will also address low water pressure particularly in Ratoath, during periods of peak demand. The old watermains are being replaced by high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes.

As part of the project, being delivered by Shareridge Ltd on behalf of Uisce Éireann and Meath County Council, a necessary road closures will be required. Pipelaying works will initially begin at the Curragha Crossroads and then progress along the R155 towards Ratoath under this road closure.

The road closure is planned from Monday, 15 of May to Friday, 15 of September 2023. During this period a signed traffic diversion route will exist via Ashbourne. Local and emergency access will be maintained throughout the works for all residents and businesses.

Diversion routes will be signposted on approach and Uisce Éireann will endeavour to minimise delays/disruptions to local traffic. A map of the Traffic Management Plan is attached.

Speaking about the works, William McKnight, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said, “Works are now completed between Emerald Park Roundabout and the Curragha Crossroads. We are now commencing the next phase of this vital project that will provide a more reliable water supply for existing homes and businesses in Ratoath, Kilbride and Ashbourne. The project will also support social and economic growth.”

Pat Wickham, Senior Executive Engineer with Meath County Council, speaking about the traffic management measures said, “This phase will require a road closure on the R155 between Curragha and the Skryne Road/R155 junction which is necessary for us to safely deliver this essential project. We would like to thank the local community, businesses and representative groups who have worked with us throughout this project and thank them for their patience as we progress into this phase”.

The project includes the construction of an elevated 4.7 million litre treated water storage reservoir and secondary disinfection system adjacent to the existing Windmill Hill reservoir.

The Windmill Hill Reservoir and Trunk Watermain to Ratoath project is just one of a number of strategically important projects to increase the security and resilience of the drinking water supply across County Meath. 

Works are scheduled to be completed at the end of 2024.

Uisce Éireann and Meath County Council will continue to update the local community as works progress.

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.