Tuesday, 19 August 2025
Critical Infrastructure Works to Improve Water Supply Reliability Uisce Éireann is set to begin essential upgrade works in Bunbrosna, delivering a more reliable and secure water supply for the local community by replacing nearly 1.8km of aged and vulnerable water mains with modern, durable piping. These works will improve the reliability of the water supply, […]
Uisce Éireann is set to begin essential upgrade works in Bunbrosna, delivering a more reliable and secure water supply for the local community by replacing nearly 1.8km of aged and vulnerable water mains with modern, durable piping.
These works will improve the reliability of the water supply, significantly reduce leakage and bursts, and enable more efficient maintenance of the local network.
Water lost through leaks not only reduces availability for homes and businesses, it also wastes the energy and resources used in its treatment and distribution. By replacing aged and damaged pipes, Uisce Éireann is actively reducing the carbon and energy footprint of the public water system, making it more environmentally sustainable.
As Ireland faces more frequent and intense weather events due to climate change, resilient water infrastructure becomes critical. Flooding, droughts, and rising temperatures can all impact water quality and supply. Uisce Éireann’s upgrades in Bunbrosna and surrounding areas contribute to climate adaptation by strengthening infrastructure that can better withstand environmental stressors.
The upgrade will take place along the N4 between Tormey’s Bar and Leny, and all works will be carried out during night-time hours (7pm–7am) to reduce impact on residents, businesses, and commuters. Uisce Éireann is working closely with Westmeath County Council to ensure the works are delivered safely, with traffic management in place where needed.
Dave Murphy, Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann, stated:
“The replacement of these old, damaged pipes will significantly lower the instances of bursts and supply disruptions along the network, providing a more secure water supply for local homes and businesses for years to come. We would like to extend our thanks to the community in advance for their patience and support as we arrive to deliver this much-needed project to futureproof the water network.”
Separate works began in mid-July to upgrade a further 2km of aged mains in the Knockdrin Estate and along the R394 at Ballynagall and Monilea. To date, over 365 metres of new water main have been installed.
Infrastructure projects like this help close the gap between urban and rural access to reliable services. Investment in places like Bunbrosna ensures that rural communities are not left behind in national efforts to modernise essential utilities. A resilient water supply supports local economies, farming, and quality of life in smaller communities.
These projects are being delivered under Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme, which has seen over €500 million invested since 2018 to modernise Ireland’s underground water infrastructure. An additional €250 million is being invested annually through 2030 to fix leaks and replace pipes nationwide.
The programme aims to reduce Ireland’s national water leakage rate to 25% by 2030, down from 46% in 2018. The benefits include:
A more resilient and sustainable water supply
Fewer service disruptions
Improved water quality
Greater efficiency in network maintenance
Customers can learn more about the Leakage Reduction Programme at www.water.ie/reducingleaks. For queries related to the Bunbrosna or surrounding area projects, residents can contact Uisce Éireann directly at 1800 278 278.
To receive real-time updates, customers are encouraged to sign up for Uisce Éireann’s free text alert service using their Eircode and mobile number via the text alerts page on water.ie.
Uisce Éireann’s ongoing investment in Bunbrosna and the wider Westmeath area will significantly enhance the local water network. By replacing old infrastructure, the organisation is working to ensure a safe, efficient, and reliable supply of drinking water that supports both current and future community needs.
Efforts to reduce leakage and upgrade infrastructure fit into a broader vision of a circular water economy, where resources are managed responsibly and reused wherever possible. Long-term, this supports a transition away from waste-heavy systems and toward sustainable practices that align with Ireland’s environmental goals and international climate commitments.
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