Contractors Coffey Northumbrian have been appointed to replace damaged pipes in Cork.

The works to decommission problematic cast iron water mains are due to get underway this week in the area around Bridge Street, Woods Place and Little William Street.

Irish Water, working in partnership with Cork City Council, will replace approximately 300 metres of old, damaged pipes in the area with modern, high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes. This will result in a big improvement both in the quality of water and the security of water supply for residents and businesses by tackling the high levels of water leakage.

The works will also involve the installation of associated service connections and removal of lead service pipes. These critical upgrades are being carried out prior to the next phase of urban renewal works under the Cork City Centre Movement Strategy.

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"With this part of Cork city due to get a major facelift in the coming year, this project will ensure that the water network is also up to date and fit for purpose in the 21st century. As they get older, cast iron pipes can become severely corroded and have a high level of leakage as well as being subject to frequent bursts. Replacing these old water mains and service connections will reduce the instances of bursts and water outages and will ensure a more reliable supply of water to customers and local businesses. Removing old cast iron and lead pipes from the public water network and replacing them with new plastic pipes will also reduce the risk of contamination," said Steven Blennerhassett, Leakage Reduction Programme, Irish Water.

"We would like to thank local residents and businesses for their ongoing cooperation as we work together to deliver these improvements for Cork; and Cork City Council for their continuing efforts in delivering this challenging programme of works."

The works are scheduled to be undertaken as follows:

• Bridge Street (estimated start 21 September to 23 November 2020)

• Woods Place and Little William Street (estimated start 23 October to 23 November 2020)

• Connection of new water main on York Street to existing water main on Wellington Road.