Major Rhode water mains work set to start

A major project to replace some 3.5km of old water mains in Rhode is to begin next week.

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Offaly County Council, is progressing the project to replace approximately 3.5km of aged water mains in Ballheashill, in Rhode.

The project, which will begin next week, will provide a more reliable water supply and reduce the amount of treated drinking water lost to leakage. The works are a critical step in conserving water and reducing high levels of leakage, said Uisce Éireann.

To facilitate the safe delivery of these works, a road closure will be required from the L-5011 at Killowen to Ballybryan junction with the R441. Local residential and emergency traffic will be maintained at all times. .

Programme Manager, for Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme Joe Carroll is looking forward to getting crews on site. “Old and damaged water mains remain a huge source of leakage and continue to impact communities right across Ireland, causing low pressure and supply disruption. Replacing these old water mains in poor condition will eliminate existing leaks and significantly reduce the amount of clean drinking water lost into the ground.”

“We would like to thank the community in Ballheashill in advance for their patience and cooperation during the works. We know based on previous experiences that the short-term inconvenience will be overshadowed by the lasting benefits.”

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

This project is being carried out by Ward & Burke Construction on behalf of Uisce Éireann and is due to be completed by the end of September.

Uisce Éireann’s helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact them on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Uisce Éireann website