Reservoir proposal could solve south Meath water woes

Five years of frequent water disruption could soon be at an end for residents of Ratoath and Ashbourne with proposals for a new trunk watermain and reservoir.

The proposal is to increase the storage capacity at Windmill Hill Reservoir and replace the existing watermain.

Irish Water and Meath County Council are planning to replace over 7km of problematic, old water mains that were prone to frequent bursts and caused water supply disruptions in both Ratoath and Ashbourne.

There are also plans to construct an additional storage reservoir at Windmill Hill.

"This is very welcome news for the people of Ratoath who have endured many water outages over the past five years," said Cllr Nick Killian.

"The addition of extra storage capacity at Windmill Hill is something I have lobbied for over the past ten years.

"At last, Irish Water has recognised the water supply difficulties to Ratoath.

"I hope the work, which will no doubt cause traffic delays, goes ahead as soon as possible," he said.

"This is a very welcome commitment by Irish Water to fix the long standing supply issues for Ratoath, Ashbourne and Kilbride," said Cllr Damien O ‘Reilly.

The project will involve the construction of a new trunk water main that will replace the existing asbestos cement watermain 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 on to the junction with the R155 in Ratoath. It will also involve the construction of a new reservoir adjacent to the existing Windmill Hill Reservoir which is between Curragha and Kilmoon Cross.

Ground investigation surveys are currently in progress on the R155 by Whiteford Geoservices Ltd. and are expected to be completed by September.

Traffic management will be in place for the duration of surveys and may include temporary traffic lights, stop/go systems, road closures and diversions. Signs will be erected to ensure road users are aware of current and upcoming traffic measures and local access and emergency access will always be maintained at all times. Consultations remains on-going with landowners impacted by the project and regular engagement with the community is planned throughout the Project duration.

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 start in 2022.

"They will improve and safeguard the water supply for local residents and businesses in Ratoath and Ashbourne. Replacing the existing water mains with new modern pipes and the construction of the new reservoir 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 Ratoath and Ashbourne."