Uisce Éireann is appealing to customers in Kells/Oldcastle and surrounding areas to conserve water to help safeguard supply

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

Uisce Éireann is appealing to customers supplied by the Kells/Oldcastle Water Supply to conserve water to protect the supply. 

The regional water supply serves the towns of Kells and Oldcastle, as well as the communities of Drumone, Crossakeel, Fennor, Kilskeer, Newcastle, Kilmainham, Headfort and Carlanstown. 

The appeal comes as a result of ongoing low water levels in Lough Bane and the River Blackwater, which supply the water treatment plants at the lake and Clavins Bridge respectively.

Michael Cunniffe, Operations Manager for Water at Uisce Éireann, explains: “The local community will have noticed that water levels in Lough Bane, in particular remains lower than usual for this time of year. This is due to significantly reduced rainfall over the past six months.”

"While it may often feel like Ireland gets plenty of rain, the data shows we’ve experienced an unseasonably warm and dry autumn and winter in the midlands. As a result, the lake has not had its usual seasonal recharge, and despite recent heavy rainfall, we are heading into the summer months with lower-than-average water levels."

“In response, we have increased our efforts in leakage detection, pipe repair, and overall network management. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take any necessary steps to manage the supply as we move through the summer.”

“However, we are appealing to customers supplied by the Kells/Oldcastle Water Supply to think about their water usage and make efforts to conserve water. As temperatures rise, so too does our water consumption. While the current warm spell is very welcome, we’re asking everyone to be mindful of their water use."

“Even small changes - like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, only running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads and fixing a leaking tap can make a meaningful impact and help reduce the pressure on the lake. Working together, we can help protect this vital resource," added Michael. 

Uisce Éireann has developed an easy-to-use conservation calculator to help people find out how much water they’re saving and what they can do to save even more. Check it out at water.ie/calculator.

This is also a good time for people to spot any leaks outside their home or business. Uisce Éireann’s first fix free scheme may provide for a free leak repair on private property where such a leak is identified. We would especially appreciate those who have been contacted for a free leak investigation engage with us to resolve potential leaks.

There is information on the scheme, along with lots of easy-to-follow water-saving tips on our website. To report a leak in the public network, or for more information, the

Uisce Éireann helpdesk is available 24/7 at 1800 278 278.

Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at our Text Updates page.