Uisce Éireann set to progress major Duleek to Navan trunk watermain project

14 September 2023

Uisce Éireann is delighted to announce that the contract to deliver a major 16 km trunk watermain from Duleek to Navan has been signed with Coffey Group.

This is just one of a number of strategically important projects underway to increase the security and resilience of the drinking water supply across Co Meath. When completed, the upgrades will provide a more reliable water supply for homes and businesses, while supporting social and economic growth and development in areas which have seen unprecedented growth in recent years.

The project will involve the construction of 16 km of new trunk watermains and a new pumping station, creating a strategic link between the Staleen Water Treatment Plant network, just south of Duleek and the Proudstown and Carn Hill reservoirs, which provide treated water storage for Navan. Once completed the new infrastructure will enable Uisce Éireann to maintain the drinking water supply to Navan in the event of any planned or unplanned disruption at Navan’s Water Treatment Plant at Liscarton.

Speaking about the benefits that this essential project will bring to Navan and the surrounding areas, William McKnight, Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann said: “We are delighted to be moving one step closer to commencing this vital project now that the contract has been signed. The new trunk watermain will provide a robust and resilient water supply for the largest town in Meath which will no longer be solely dependent on the Liscarton Water Treatment Plant for its water supply.

In 2021, Uisce Éireann completed two significant projects to upgrade, modernise, and enhance the treatment facilities at both Staleen and Liscarton Water Treatment Plants, to provide a safe and secure water supply for communities in East Meath/South Louth and Navan respectively. On completion, the Duleek to Navan Trunk Watermain project will ensure a sustainable drinking water supply for Navan, in the event of planned or unplanned disruptions at Liscarton Water Treatment Plant and enable future growth of the town.

William added: “Meath is home to a number of large, well-established towns, some of which have seen significant growth in recent years. Uisce Éireann recognises the need for water supplies in Meath to be more resilient to population growth and to periods of high demand, which is why we are building future capacity into our water infrastructure.”

To deliver the project safely for crews and the public, traffic management will be necessary and will be implemented in consultation with Meath County Council. Local and emergency access will always be maintained and regular engagement with the community is planned throughout the duration of the project. Works are due to commence on site in early 2024 and the project is expected to be completed in approximately two years.

The proposed works will take place on existing public roads between Duleek and Navan, on the L1610 from Boolies Little (South of Duleek) to the junction with the N2 at Balrath; on the R153 from Balrath to Kentstown; and on the R153 from Kentstown to Casey’s Cross, Navan.

The proposed works will require a crossing under the River Boyne between lands adjacent to St Mary’s Cemetery on the Boyne Road and lands adjacent to Blackcastle Estate on the Slane Road. An underground crossing will also be required under the Navan to Drogheda railway line. However, to minimise the impact to the community and the environment, the pipeline will be installed using trenchless technology, meaning construction will take place underground without the need for open-cut excavation.

Uisce Éireann’s customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website or set your location on our website.

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.