2,100 metres of water mains in Kealkill to be replaced

THE community of Kealkill in West Cork can look forward to a more reliable water supply, as works have commenced on replacing ageing pipes.

As part of Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme, the works will replace approximately 2,100 metres of water mains along the R585 Kealkill to Bantry road.

The project 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.

When complete, the project is expected to reduce the instances of bursts and water outages for customers in the area.

Programme Manager for Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme, Jack Cronin, said: “We would like to thank customers in advance for their cooperation and patience while we complete these works.

“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 and enabling these communities to thrive,” Mr Cronin added.

The project is being carried out by Ward and Burke Construction Ltd on behalf of Uisce Éireann and is anticipated to be complete by late summer.

Works are ongoing between Kealkill Community Hall and Kealkill Water Treatment Plant, and to minimise disruption, these will be limited to short sections.

Temporary traffic lights are in place at the R585 for the duration of the works, and standard working hours are 7am to 7pm, Monday to Friday.

The works may require some short-term water interruptions, but the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned interruptions.

“This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Local Authorities to reduce leaks every day,” said Mr Cronin.

Ireland has over 63,000 km of water pipes underground— enough to circle the earth one and a half times.

Most leaks aren’t visible, resulting in water being lost but progress is being made — in 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2022 it was 37%. Uisce Éireann are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25% by the end of 2030.

The Uisce Éireann customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also the provider on X @IWCare with any queries.