Irish Water have announced plans to replace the ageing water mains network in the vicinity of Griffin’s Cross, Parteen with new pipes.
€80,000 will be spent on laying 400 metres of a 150mm diameter water pipe to replace the existing line. It is hoped it will put an end to ongoing leaks in the locality.
In the past fortnight several hundred homes in the Parteen, Ardnacrusha, Clonlara and Meelick area went were without a water supply for the fifth time this year. Some residents had to endure two days without water on this occasion.
Local Fianna Fáil Cllr Cathal Crowe told The Clare Herald “I have been advised by Irish Water personnel that at most times the pressure along the mains line between Parteen and Clonlara is very high. To ensure that the pipe is capable of carrying the water safely to Clonlara village a series of pressure reducing valves have been installed along the network. Unfortunately these valves have been susceptible to failure – causing recurring surges in pressure which rupture the pipe.
“The pipe system near Griffin’s Cross is old and, at this stage, too unreliable. I know on the short-term that locals will be frustrated with the planned water-outages whilst the new pipes are being laid (anticipated Spring 2017) but I am confident that in the long-term they will see the benefit of having an improved, pressurised supply to their homes” Crowe added.