Contractors Coffey Engineering have been appointed to replace 450 metres of ageing, problematic water mains on the R448 in Jerpoint, Kilkenny.

The work is being carried out on behalf of Irish Water and is expected to be complete in June.

The works are will also involve laying new water service connections from the public water main in the road to customers property boundaries and, connecting it to the customers' water supply. Where the existing service connections on the public side are lead pipes, these will be replaced with polyethylene (plastic) pipes as part of this improvement work.

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Networks Programmes Regional Lead for Irish Water, Joe Carroll said: "Jerpoint is a unique place not only in Kilkenny, but in Ireland and we are delighted to be able to bring a more secure and reliable water supply to the residents and community of the area. The benefits of these works will come by way of replacing water mains and service connections that will reduce the instances of bursts and the occurrences of water outages which will ensure a reliable supply of water to customers and local businesses in the area.

"This work will also eliminate existing leaks and reduce the amount of clean drinking water lost into the ground, which is hugely important. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2019 it was 42% and we are currently on course to achieving a national leakage rate of 38% by 2021. Additionally, on completion, the works will deliver cost savings by providing improved water network operation that will require less maintenance in the future. Finally, I would like to thank the residents for their patience as we carry out these essential works."