Intensive Flushing Works Begin In Cork City

Uisce Éireann is actively working to enhance water quality for residents and businesses in Cork City through a scheduled program of intensive flushing operations.

The flushing efforts are part of Uisce Éireann's broader network improvement strategy aimed at resolving water discolouration issues.

Planned flushing will take place in Dublin Hill, Meelick Park, Mervue Crescent, Glenthorn, Old White Church road and areas off the Ballyvolane Road.

Water Operations Lead for Uisce Éireann, Sean Lynch said: "This is the start of the next phase of our planned flushing for the Northside of Cork City that will be undertaken. Our goal is to minimise the instances of discolouration for the people of Cork City in areas across Cork City, where reports of discolouration have been received. It is anticipated that this programme of works will take approximately two months to complete as it is a large DMA (District Metering Area). We are asking customers to watch out for the signage erected in advance of flushing in your area over this period."


The first round of flushing is set to commence at 8pm on Wednesday, September 25. As works progress through the area, signage will be put in place.

The programme involves isolating and flushing small sections of the water network to clear any build-up of sediment from the old cast iron pipes. Isolating the flushing area from the larger network in this manner minimises disruption and improves sediment removal. Clearing the pipes can result in sediment carrying through to customers’ taps resulting in increased instances of discoloured water in the short-term.

To minimise disruption further, the works will be carried out at night-time during off peak usage hours, typically starting after 8pm until 4am. It is intended that the network will have time to return to normal before the morning demand starts, reducing the potential for discoloured water at customers' taps.

Each area is broken down into zones for night-time works and as Uisce Éireann progresses flushing through these areas a review of the programme's operational effectiveness will be undertaken before proceeding to the next zone.