Donegal motorists have been affected by a backlog in traffic on the Kilmacrennan Road today.
Traffic has been reportedly at a standstill in the area.
Councillor Donal Coyle says that he will be raising the issue at the next Municipal District meeting.
Irish Water have responded with the following statement:
Works to replace almost a 1km stretch of old troublesome water main in the Carnamuggagh area of Donegal are nearing completion.
Uisce Éireann is working to remove 900m of ageing pipes and deliver a more reliable water supply to locals before the end of November 2023.
The new pipework along the N56 and L1164 Carnamuggagh Lower Road will significantly reduce leakage levels and put an end to disruption to the water supply.
Uisce Éireann’s Networks Programme manager Patricia Lowry is looking forward to getting the project completed and thanked the local community for their patience while these essential works are carried out.
“We’re well aware of the problems this stretch of water main has been causing. Carrying out these works under the National Leakage Reduction Programme will greatly benefit the community.
“It will put an end to sporadic bursts and significantly reduce the amount of clean drinking water lost into the ground. Customers can look forward to a more secure and reliable supply.”
Farrans Construction are carrying out the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann with a planned completion date in November 2023. The works are currently running on schedule.
Works along the N56 on the approach to Knocknamona Roundabout from the Kilmacreenan side are nearing completion, with works in this area being completed at 3pm today and only nightime works remaining. These nightime works will be completed with traffic lights in place.
“We understand that this type of work is inconvenient, and our crews will continue to make every effort to minimise disruption to the local community. These works are essential for the area and the long-term benefits will far outweigh any short-term inconvenience. We thank the community for their patience and co-operation,” said Patricia.
The works may require some short-term water interruptions to the water supply, but the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned interruptions.
The works in Carnamuggagh is one example of how Uisce Éireann is working in partnership with Local Authorities to reduce leakage and provide a more reliable water supply. Fixing leaks can be complicated but we are making progress. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2022 it was 37%. We are on track to achieve a national leakage rate of 25% by the end of 2030.
We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment. Since 2018, Uisce Éireann has invested more than €500 million to upgrade the underground water network across the country through the delivery of the national Leakage Reduction Programme. We are investing a further €250 million every year up to the end of 2030 – fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply.
