Work is moving forward to boost the water supply across mid Kerry.

Following approval, Irish Water will replace 2.3kms of critical water mains between the Gap of Dunloe Cross on the Board of Works Road and Beaufort village. These works will improve the supply in the Beaufort, Listry and Faha areas.

Kerry County Council will carry out the works under Irish Water's national Leakage Reduction Programme, with completion expected in March 2022.

Charlie O'Leary, Executive Engineer with Kerry County Council, said: "The water supply in the mid Kerry scheme is supplied in part by an asbestos cement pipe laid on sections of the Board of Works road in the 1970s. Almost 8kms in total of the supply pipes across the scheme were replaced in recent years with the remaining replacements now being undertaken on the eastern network toward Killarney. The worst of this section is in and around the Gap Cross with multiple bursts over the years. When this additional 2.3km is completed it will mean that in total 14.5km of very problematic but critical water mains in the area will have been replaced through previously replaced sections and the work carried out in 2021/22."

-- Advertisement --

This work is being carried out as part of Irish Water's Leakage Reduction Programme, which will see €500m invested nationally to tackle problematic pipes and leakage in Ireland's ageing water network. 

The works may involve some short-term water shut offs and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours' notice prior to any planned water shut offs. Where water mains are being constructed, traffic management will be in place to ensure the works are carried out safely. In order to complete this work safely and efficiently a temporary road closure from the Gap of Dunloe cross to the River Loe bridge is required. Recommended diversions will be signposted on approach. Local access will be maintained throughout the works. Local and emergency traffic will be maintained at all times.