Major Water Infrastructure Upgrade Set to Begin in Clonakilty Next Week
Major water infrastructure upgrade begins next week in Clonakilty. Nearly 1km of aging pipes to be replaced. Road closure L-4011 from 30 June-4 July.
- Uisce Éireann to replace nearly one kilometre of aging watermains in West Cork to tackle persistent leakage issues
The communities of Inchydoney and Clonakilty are set to receive a significant boost to their water security as Uisce Éireann prepares to launch major infrastructure improvements next week. The project will see nearly one kilometre of deteriorating watermains replaced in Cloheen, Clonakilty, as part of the utility's National Leakage Reduction Programme.
The aging pipes, which have been prone to frequent bursts and leaks, will be completely replaced to provide residents with a more reliable water supply whilst reducing the substantial amounts of treated water currently being lost into the ground.
Jack Cronin, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, expressed enthusiasm for the community benefits the project will deliver.
"Replacing these old and damaged pipes will significantly lower the instances of bursts and outages on the network, eliminate existing leaks and reduce the amount of clean water lost into the ground. The works will also improve the operation of the network by reducing the need for frequent repairs to aged watermains. In advance of the works commencing, we would like to thank the local community for their support and patience as we carry out these essential works."
Residents and commuters should prepare for some disruption during the construction phase. Traffic management measures will include traffic lights and stop-go systems operated by traffic marshals. Most significantly, a five-day road closure will affect the L-4011 in Clonakilty from 30 June to 4 July, though local and emergency access will be maintained throughout.
Ward and Burke Construction Ltd will carry out the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann, with the project scheduled for completion by August. Some brief water supply interruptions may be necessary during the work, but customers will receive at least 48 hours' advance notice of any planned disruptions.
The improvements form part of Uisce Éireann's ambitious target to reduce the national leakage rate to 25% by 2030. The utility has already made considerable progress since 2018, when the leakage rate stood at 46%.
Customers can stay informed about any supply interruptions through the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website or by calling 1800 278 278. The utility also offers a free text service providing real-time updates for local issues, which residents can access by registering their Eircode and mobile number online.
Members of the public who spot leaks in the public water network are encouraged to report them by contacting Uisce Éireann at 1800 278 278 or through their online reporting system.
