The latest phase of a major programme to improve water services in County Carlow has reached its midpoint.

Crews have now installed 3km of the planned 6km of ageing watermains between Friarstown Pump Station and the N81/R727 junction at McGraths Cross. When this phase is complete, it will deliver a more secure and reliable water supply for homes and businesses in St Mullins and surrounding areas.

Finishing the current works will bring the total upgraded length on this network to more than 12km, significantly boosting resilience, reducing leakage and supporting future growth across the county.

Dave Murphy, Portfolio Manager with Uisce Éireann, said: "Reaching the halfway point on this phase is a significant milestone. Replacing older watermains improves water quality and pressure, while also reducing the risk of bursts and unplanned outages. These works are helping to build a more resilient and reliable network for customers across Carlow, while supporting ongoing development in the area.

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"We would like to thank the local community for their continued patience and cooperation as we deliver these essential upgrades."

This phase follows earlier upgrades in the area that replaced 6.5km of aged watermains between Brownshill Reservoir and Friarstown Pump Station, further enhancing overall network performance.

The works are being delivered by Shareridge on behalf of Uisce Éireann.

The project forms part of Uisce Éireann's ongoing efforts to tackle leakage. With more than 65,000 km of watermains buried across Ireland—enough to circle the earth one and a half times—many leaks are not visible. National leakage has been reduced from 49% in 2014 to 36%.

Customers with queries can contact Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 or visit the Water Supply Updates section of the website for regular updates. Further information is available on the Straboe Crossroads to Brownshill Water Mains Replacement project page.

Uisce Éireann, which provides public drinking water and wastewater services in Ireland, says it remains committed to upgrading critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth, deliver safe drinking water and enhance the environment.