Town in Kilkenny sees vital project commence to address their water woes

Uisce Éireann have confirmed that phase one of a project has commenced to develop a new groundwater supply to address deficits with the Castlecomer Water Supply Scheme.

Issues with existing water infrastructure and quality in the area have been a source of concern for local residents for many years now.

These issues have also hindered residential and commercial development in the district as the required water infrastructure is not there at present to support it.

This new project will proceed on a phased basis, with the main stages including hydrogeological assessment, landowner engagement, trial well drilling, production well drilling and construction of new infrastructure including treatment facilities, pipelines, etc.

Due to the nature of the project, land acquisition, planning approvals and other legal consents, such as wayleaves, may be required.

Timelines for the project will be dependent on successful progress with such issues, but based on similar type projects is expected to take at least five years.

Phase One has already commenced and the landowner engagement phase is expected to proceed before the end of the year.

Short-term measures to alleviate pressure have largely been exhausted, though there are plans to attempt rehabilitation of the boreholes at Clogh Water Treatment Plant.

News of the project commencement has been welcomed by local councillor John Brennan, who is amongst those who have been lobbying for its implementation for some time now.

“The provision of a new supply is absolutely critical to the entire area,” he said.

“There are so many local households affected by water issues at present so it’s a step in the right direction that we have a provisional timeline for the development of this new supply.

“Looking ahead, we will be pushing for these works to be progressed as quickly as possible.”