Traffic disruption in Tipperary expected as Uisce Éireann replace town centre watermains

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Tipperary County Council, is replacing about 300 meters of old watermains in Cashel, and a temporary stop/go traffic system will have to be put in place.

The watermains that were prone to frequent bursts and leakage are being replaced with new modern pipes. Once complete, the works will provide a more reliable water supply, and reduce high levels of leakage.

The section of works will take place along Rock Lane, from the junction with Moor Lane and end at the junction into the R660.

The works 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. These works are due to start on Monday, January 29, and are scheduled to be completed in March.

Once completed customers in this area will enjoy an improved water supply with less disruption. Shareridge Civil Engineering are contracted to carry out the work on behalf of Uisce Éireann.

Commenting on the project, David Murphy, Uisce Éireann said: “To facilitate the safe delivery of the project and to minimise impact on the community, areas of work will be limited to short sections.”

Traffic management will be in place at this time, in the form of a stop/go system and traffic lights. Hours of work will be 8am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, and 8am – 1pm on Saturday. Local and emergency traffic will always be maintained.

Mr Murphy added: “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 enabling these communities to thrive.”

This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Tipperary County Council to reduce leaks every day, said a spokesperson.

“Fixing leaks can be complicated. We have over 63,000 km of water pipes underground in Ireland, enough to circle the earth one and a half times. Most leaks aren’t visible, resulting in precious water being lost but we are making progress.

“In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46pc, by the end of 2022 it was 37pc. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25pc by the end of 2030.

“The works may involve some short-term water shut offs and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water shut offs.

“Uisce Éireann understands that this type of work can be inconvenient and work crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption,” added the spokesperson.

Customers can phone Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website for regular updates. For more information visit www.water.ie

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