Rathcoole set to benefit from water mains replacement works
20 February 2024
Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Cork County Council, is replacing approximately 2km of old water watermains in Rathcoole. The watermains that were prone to frequent bursts and leakage are being replaced with new modern pipes. Once complete, the works will improve water quality, provide a more reliable water supply, and reduce high levels of leakage. These works are being carried out as part of Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme.
The section of works will take place along Collins Transport Road (L-5216) from the junction on the L-1120 and end at Moynihan’s Terrace. The works will also involve laying new water service connections from the public water main in the road to customers’ property boundaries and connecting it to the customers’ water supply. These works are due to in mid-February and are scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2024.
Once completed customers in this area will enjoy an improved water supply with less disruption. Ward and Burke Construction are contracted to carry out the work on behalf of Uisce Éireann.
Commenting on the project, Jack Cronin, Uisce Éireann said “To facilitate the safe delivery of the project and to minimise impact on the community traffic management will be in place at this time. Areas of work will be limited to short sections to minimise impact on customers. To deliver the works safely and efficiently, a road closure will be in place on Monday 12th February to Friday 29th March. Collins Transport Road (L-5216) will be closed from the T-junction on the L-1120 and end at Moynihan’s Terrace. Local diversions will be in place during this time along the L-1120 towards Rathcoole Village and continue onto Moynihan’s Terrace (L-117). Local and emergency traffic will always be maintained in the form of a stop/go system and traffic lights. Hours of work will be 8am - 5pm (Monday – Friday) and 8am - 1pm (Saturday). Local and emergency traffic will always be maintained”.
Cronin continued “This essential work is part of a significant investment by Uisce Éireann to improve the water network across the country, prioritising investment where it is needed most enabling these communities to thrive.”
This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Cork County Council to reduce leaks every day. Fixing leaks can be complicated. We have over 63,000 km of water pipes underground in Ireland – enough to circle the earth one and a half times. 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 2022 it was 37%. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25% by the end of 2030.
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.
Customers can phone Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website for regular updates.
For more information 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 our website.