Works commenced today (August 11) to replace over 5.4km of aged water mains with modern pipes along the N55 as part of critical infrastructure works to improve supply to the town of Ballymahon in County Longford.

Ward and Burke Construction Ltd has begun works between the Carrickedmond Church and Ballymahon Mart, on behalf of Uisce Éireann, which will reduce high levels of leakage and support growth in the area. Stop/go traffic management supporting traffic flow in both directions is in place.

A road closure is required for the next phase of works to install the large pipework, beginning on Monday, August 25. The road closure will be in place 24 hours a day until Friday, November 28.

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Speaking about the project, Dave Murphy, Programme Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: "Working in partnership with Longford County Council, we are coordinating two significant upgrades for the Ballymahon community. The water mains replacement will be delivered in conjunction with Longford County Council's road upgrade works—all within the planned closure period.

"We understand that from experience the road closure will cause inconvenience, but by combining these projects, we are limiting the overall impact. This is a case of short-term pain for long-term gain—once complete, the improvements will bring lasting benefits to residents, businesses, and road users."

Con Diffley, Senior Executive Engineer for Longford County Council, added: "The continued investment by Uisce Éireann in the region is welcomed. By collaborating on these two key infrastructure projects, we can reduce the disruption period and deliver lasting improvements to the community's road network."