A project is progressing well to increase the storage capacity at Windmill Hill Reservoir in County Meath.

Irish Water is working alongside Meath County Council to deliver the project, which also includes plans to replace the existing water main between Windmill reservoir and Ratoath Village.

The construction of a new reservoir will increase treated water storage capacity, improving supply resilience and reducing the impact of a supply disruption.

The project will involve the construction of a new trunk water main that will replace the existing asbestos cement main between Windmill Hill and Ratoath. This new watermain will run parallel to the existing one along the L5003 from the reservoir site at Windmill Hill to the junction with the R155 at the entrance to Tayto Park; and along the R155 from the entrance to Tayto Park to the junction with the R125 in Ratoath Village. The new reservoir will be constructed adjacent to the existing Windmill Hill Reservoirs.

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Irish Water is set to move along with the next step of the project by submitting a planning application to Meath County Council this month. The utility has now started the procurement process for construction of the new reservoir and water main and expect to enter a Works Contract during Q3 this year.

Commenting on the project, William McKnight, Regional Lead, Irish Water said: "The replacement of these ageing water mains and the construction of the new reservoir are scheduled to commence this year. In combination they will improve and safeguard the water supply for local residents and businesses in Ratoath, Kilbride and Ashbourne. They will provide a long-term solution to ensure a safe and secure water supply is delivered to customers to meet current demand and facilitate development in these areas. Irish Water will continue to provide updates as the project progresses."