Significant upgrade completed on Dunshaughlin’s water network

23 November 2022

As part of its commitment to upgrade and improve water supplies across Meath, Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Meath County Council, is delighted to announce the completion of a major water project in Dunshaughlin, to improve water quality. The project was prioritised as part of Uisce Éireann’s national Leakage Reduction Programme.

This project, which represents a substantial investment by Uisce Éireann, involved the replacement of over 1km of old and problematic cast iron water mains along Main Street. The old mains were replaced with modern pipework that will significantly improve water quality and bring the network into the 21st century for a more sustainable supply.

To mark the completion of this critical upgrade for Dunshaughlin and associated benefits to the local community and economy, David Lonergan and Matt Thomson from Uisce Éireann, were joined by Minister for Justice and local TD, Helen McEntee; Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Councillor Nick Killian; Cathaoirleach of Ratoath Municipal District, Gillian Toole; local councillors, Damien O’Reilly, and Gerry O’ Connor; along with representatives from Meath County Council, GMC Utilities Group, and pupils from St. Seachnalls National School. The school is actively involved in An Taisce’s Green-Schools environmental education programme, sponsored by Uisce Éireann, which promotes long-term, whole-school action for the environment.

Highlighting the importance of this major project for Dunshaughlin, Matt Thomson, Leakage Reduction Programme Regional Lead with Uisce Éireann, said, “Aged cast iron pipes have been a constant challenge to the water quality of homes and business on the main street in Dunshaughlin. Over time, cast iron pipes can become encrusted and affect water quality and pressure. Through our strategic approach to managing the water network this area of piping was prioritised for replacement and will ensure significantly improved water quality and supply for our customers in Dunshaughlin.

“We would like to thank customers for their continued cooperation and patience while we continue to upgrade and improve the water quality and supply across the county. Based on previous experiences, we know that the short-term inconvenience will be overshadowed by the long-term benefits that the new pipeline will deliver”

Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Councillor Nick Killian said, “The importance of providing a secure water supply for a town like Dunshaughlin cannot be underestimated. The successful completion of this project is a testament to the collaboration and dedication to everyone involved in this project.”

Reflecting on the importance of the works for Dunshaughlin, Dara McGowan, Director of Services with Meath County Council, said: As a result of the collaboration between Meath County Council and Uisce Éireann, this project has significantly improved water quality, benefiting homes and businesses in the area by reducing disruptions to supply, and reducing drinking water lost to underground leaks.”

Paula McCaul, CEO of County Meath Chamber of Commerce, added, “Having a secure, safe water supply is an integral part of any local business. Replacing these pipes is a first step in improving water quality, which affects businesses in the Dunshaughlin. We welcome the continued investment and development in water services by Uisce Éireann in the county.”

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.