Uisce Éireann is set to commence a major upgrade of Ballina's water network in the coming days, investing €3 million to modernise ageing infrastructure and underpin the town's continued development.

The project will replace over 1.1km of water mains along McDermott Street, improving reliability for households and businesses and creating additional capacity to facilitate new housing and economic activity.

Delivered through Uisce Éireann's Growth and Development Programme, the scheme is designed to future‑proof Ballina's water services, positioning the town to attract investment and meet the needs of a growing population.

Phase one, which involved replacing 250 metres of main from Ballina Reservoir to the junction with Slí Ectra, was completed at the end of last year. Crews will now continue along McDermott Street towards the town centre, finishing at the junction with Teeling Street.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, TD, said: "This work marks another important step in supporting Ballina's continued development. By strengthening the capacity and resilience of the water network, this project will help unlock new housing and support economic growth in the town. Investment in water services is critical to delivering sustainable communities, as set out in our Housing Action Plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities."

-- Advertisement --

Michael McManus, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, highlighted the long‑term benefits for customers and the area. "We are delighted to be back in Ballina to continue this important upgrade."

"This project will provide a more reliable supply for customers, reduce the risk of bursts and leakage, and ensure the network can meet future demand as the town continues to grow. It builds on a number of successful projects already delivered in Ballina with others proposed including an upgrade to the Ballina and Lough Talt Water Supply."

The works will be delivered in phases:

• Phase 1: Ballina Reservoir to Slí Ectra – completed.

• Phase 2: Slí Ectra to Fenian Row – daytime lane closure between Fenian Row and Slí Ectra; right turn only on Fenian Row for traffic approaching McDermott St. Commencing 15 June for approximately two weeks.

• Phase 3: Fenian Row to Mercy Road – road closure from Monday 29 June to Friday, 21 August; diversions via Fenian Row, Lord Edward Street and Mercy Road.

• Phase 4: Mercy Row to Convent Hill – night‑time works for two weeks commencing in August with a lane closure.

• Phase 5: Convent Hill to Teeling Street – dayworks for approximately five weeks commencing in September with a lane closure.

Farrans Construction will carry out the upgrade on behalf of Uisce Éireann. Traffic management will be in place as required, including lane restrictions and localised road closures with signed diversions as outlined. To minimise disruption, certain phases will be undertaken at night, and emergency access will be maintained at all times.