Dunshaughlin water mains upgrades to disrupt traffic

Traffic disruption is expected in Dunshaughlin over the coming weeks as water mains upgrade works is due to get underway, as part of Irish Water’s Leakage Reduction Programme.

Meath County Council and Irish Water are replacing approximately 700 metres of old and problematic cast iron water mains along Main Street in Dunshaughlin to provide a more safe and secure water supply for customers. The works will improve water quality, and help reduce the high level of leakage and bursts impacting customers.

Matt Thomson, Leakage Reduction Programme Regional Lead with Irish Water, explained: “These essential works will benefit customers by replacing ageing water mains with new and improved modern pipes. The new water mains will improve water quality and reduce the high level of leakage in the area, and increase security of supply and reliability.

“The works may involve some short-term water interruptions, however, the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water interruptions. We understand that this type of work can be inconvenient and works crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption these necessary works cause.

“These ongoing projects are part of a significant investment by Irish Water to upgrade the water network across Meath and we would like to thank customers for their continued cooperation and patience while we continue to upgrade and improve the water supply in county.”

GMC Utilities Ltd are contracted to carry out the works on behalf of Irish Water which are scheduled to begin in the coming weeks and should be completed in May.

"This project is one example of how Irish Water is continuing to work in partnership with Meath County Council to reduce leaks every day. Fixing leaks can be complicated with over 63,000km of water pipe in Ireland. 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 per cent, by the end of 2021 it was reduced to 38per cent. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 32per cent by the end of 2024."

Customers can phone Irish Water on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or check out the Water Supply Updates section of the Irish Water website for regular updates.