Rhode water main replacement works to start next week

A water main replacement project in Rhode, which aims to resolve high levels of leakage in the area, is set to begin on Monday next.

The project will see almost 800 meters of "old, problematic water mains along Main Street" being replaced with new, high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes which should improve water quality and solve the leakage issues, Irish Water stated.

In addition, 1.2km of old water mains in the Fahy, Ballybritton area, located east of the village centre, are also due to be replaced.

Irish Water said some traffic management would be required during the works, which are being carried out by contractors Ward and Burke Ltd, and are expected to be completed in April.

A stop/go traffic system will be implemented on Main Street in Rhode, but local and emergency access is due to be maintained at all times.

A road closure will also be in place on a section of road along the R441 in the Fahy, Ballybritton area for the duration of the project.

"A traffic management plan is in place and has been communicated locally," said Irish Water.

It added that the works may involve some short-term water supply interruptions, but said people would be given 48 hours' notice of any planned water shut-offs.

"We understand that this type of work can be inconvenient and we will ensure our work crews make every effort to minimise any disruption these works may cause," commented Joe Carroll of Irish Water.

"We would like to thank the local community, businesses, homeowners and commuters for their patience and cooperation while we deliver these vital water network improvement works to safeguard the water supply in Offaly."