Irish Water replacing 1.7km of old problematic water mains in Ballina

IRISH Water, working in partnership with Mayo County Council, is replacing ageing water mains in Ballina to improve security of supply, improve water quality, and reduce high levels of leakage.

The works involve the replacement of approximately 1,700 metres of old problematic water mains with high density polyethylene (plastic) pipe material.

The works are part of Irish Water’s National Leakage Reduction Programme, which will reduce the high level of leakage across the country by fixing or replacing ageing water mains over the next four years. This contract is being carried out by Farran’s Construction Limited.

Works are due to commence in mid-September and will take approximately 16 weeks to complete. Once complete, customers will benefit from a more consistent water supply due to the reduction in instances of bursts and leaks.

Explaining what’s involved, Irish Water’s Water Network Regional Lead, David Murphy, said: “The section of works will take place between Circular Road, Pound Street, Killala Road and Libadore. 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. Where the existing service connections on the public side are lead, these will be replaced as part of this improvement work.”

Areas of work will be limited to short sections to minimise impact on customers. 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.

Traffic management will be in place during this time. Local and emergency traffic will be maintained at all times. Irish Water understands that this type of work can be inconvenient and works crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption these necessary works cause.

Residents and businesses in the areas to benefit from the planned improvements have been notified and customers can phone Irish Water on Callsave 1850 278 278 if they have any questions about the project. Irish Water would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience these essential works cause.