Watermains replacement works commencing in Ballyraine, Co Donegal to improve security of supply for customers and reduce leakage

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Donegal County Council, is replacing approximately 200 metres of old, problematic, water mains in Ballyraine, Co Donegal that were prone to bursts and leakage which caused water supply disruptions for customers in the area. The mains are being replaced with new high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes and the works are being carried out in accordance with Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions.

The mains that are being replaced are at Ballyraine Industrial Estate road and the junction with R245. The works are due to commence in early February and will be completed by the end of March. Once completed customers in this area will enjoy an improved water supply with less disruption. Farran's Construction Ltd are contracted to carry out the work on behalf of Uisce Éireann in line with Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions.

This project is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Donegal County Council to reduce leaks every day. Fixing leaks can be complicated with over 63,000km of water pipe in Ireland. Most leaks aren't visible, resulting in precious water being lost but we are making progress. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2019 it was 42% and we are currently on course to achieving a national leakage rate of 38% by 2021.

Commenting on the project Declan Cawley, Uisce Éireann said: "To facilitate the safe delivery of the works, there will be some traffic management in place. Local and emergency access will be maintained at all times.

"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. We understand that this type of work can be inconvenient and works crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption these necessary works cause.

"This mains replacement work is part of a significant investment by Uisce Éireann to upgrade the water network in Donegal and we would like to thank customers in advance for their cooperation and patience while we complete this essential job. We would also like to remind people to follow the HSE COVID-19 advice and ensure frequent handwashing."

Customers have been notified about the works and can phone Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 if they have any questions about the project or check out the Supply and Service Updates section of our website for regular updates.

The National Leakage Reduction Programme helps provide a more reliable water supply to Irish communities by reducing high levels of leakage and improving water quality. Its delivery represents an investment of over €500 million between 2017 and 2021 to reduce leakage and replace old pipes on the water network.

Uisce Éireann continues to work at this time with our Local Authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of both staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of critical drinking water and wastewater services. Uisce Éireann would like to remind people to follow the HSE COVID-19 advice and ensure frequent handwashing.

For more information on reducing leaks, visit the National Leakage Reduction Programme section of our website.