Upgrade of water network to take months

TRAFFIC, homes, businesses and schools are set to be disrupted in Tullow for seven months as Uisce Éireann embarks on a complete upgrade of the water network. The company is upgrading the network of pipes that lie under the streets and roads of Tullow, starting next month and continuing until a projected finishing date of September. Uisce Éireann is upgrading the water network to improve the delivery of water supply, reduce leakages and improve the water quality in the town.

The existing network has a high frequency of bursts and water pressure issues because it’s been in situ for 70 years. Shareridge Civil Engineering has been appointed as contractor and will start its site investigations on 10 February, beginning at Mill Street, Bridge Street and Market Square. “It’s a long haul,” said Ian Furlong from the company, when he gave a presentation to Tullow Municipal District councillors. Road closures will take place either at night, during the day or during school holiday periods, depending on where the work is being carried out. Traffic management, including stop/go systems will also be set up. Trenches spanning a metre will be dug into the roads as the work is being carried out, the councillors were told. Uisce Éireann will deliver information into homes and businesses just before traffic management systems are put in place, while they hold an information meeting in Tullow Library on Wednesday 5 February.