Uisce Éireann Expands Water Flushing Programme to New Areas of Cork City

Uisce Éireann is set to begin the next phase of its proactive water flushing programme in Cork City, following the successful completion of works in the Inter South-East area. The new phase will target the High East and High South-East areas of the city, continuing efforts to improve water quality and address discolouration issues for residents and businesses.

The planned flushing works are scheduled to commence on the evening of 19 May 2025 and are expected to take approximately four nights to complete. This marks the third area to be flushed as part of the utility's 2025 programme.

Areas included in this phase of works include parts of the Old Youghal Road, North Ring Road, Mayfield Business Park, and The Steeples in the High East Zone A area. The High South-East Zone A will cover Kerry Road, Springfield Estate, Byefield Park, and several other locations including Courtlands and Sli Gartan.

Water Operations Lead for Uisce Éireann, James Goulding, stated:

"We are pleased to have successfully completed the targeted flushing programme in the Inter South-East area of Cork City. On Monday evening, we will begin the next phase of flushing in a new part of the city. We continue to see positive benefits from undertaking this programme of flushing; however, we are still asking customers to continue to report any instances of discolouration they may experience."

To minimise disruption to residents and businesses, the works will be carried out during off-peak hours, typically starting after 10pm and finishing in the early hours of the morning. This timing allows the network sufficient time to return to normal before morning demand begins, reducing the potential for discoloured water at customers' taps.

Signage will be placed in the affected areas as works progress. Customers are advised to check the supply and services section of the Uisce Éireann website at www.water.ie for updates.

Water discolouration can occur when sediment, including naturally occurring metals such as manganese and iron, becomes dislodged from old cast iron pipes or during works on the water network. If customers experience discoloured water, Uisce Éireann recommends running the cold kitchen tap for up to 20 minutes, which should restore the water to a clear colour. The water is safe to drink once it runs clear.

If issues persist, customers are encouraged to contact Uisce Éireann directly on 1800 278 278.

The current programme builds on Uisce Éireann's previous work in 2024, when the utility carried out targeted flushing in seven different District Metering Areas (DMAs). In 2025, the planned flushing programme began with phases in the Inter South Central DMA and Inter South-East DMA before moving to the current areas.

Further information on water quality and discolouration can be found on the Uisce Éireann website at www.water.ie/help/water-quality/discoloured-water/.