New watermains for Ballinea

(Above) Deputy Peter Burke.

Funding has been secured to replace the water mains at Kilpatrick, Ballinea. This watermain replacement work will commence in quarter four of this year, according to Minister of State Peter Burke.

Speaking this week, Deputy Burke, who is Minister of State in the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government , said that the news will be welcomed by local households.

“I met with residents earlier this year, alongside Cllr Andrew Duncan, and understood their frustration at recent issues with their water supply. There have been 16 incidents of burst water pipe over the last two years over a 520 metre stretch. This had left the community without a secure supply of water and it was clear that large scale works were needed to remedy the situation.

“Upon my appointment to the department, I raised this case with officials and outlined the urgent need for capital works in the area. We cannot have a situation where residents of an area are constantly unsure of whether they will have water, and there was also St Kenny’s School to consider in this catchment area.

“In response to my request, I have been told by management of Irish Water that this is being prioritised and detailed design works are now taking place with a regional contractor. Construction is planned to commence in quarter four of this year. I continue to receive updates on the project and will inform residents when work is taking place and completed.

“This is positive news for residents in Ballinea and I am hopeful that a comprehensive solution to their water issues will be implemented by the end of this year.”