'A turning point' - Relief in Kilkenny area as new source of water supply identified
Engagement with Kilkenny landowners impacted by the new water supply source is underway
Political representatives in North Kilkenny have welcomed an update by Uisce Eireann who have confirmed they have identified an alternative water supply for the Castlecomer area. - SEE STATEMENT BELOW
The local town and its surrounds have faced countless water restrictions in recent years due to poor water quality, with businesses and residents all negatively impacted.
"It will allow for critical future development in the Castlecomer area," Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick said following the news.
"The decision marks a turning point. This is a critical step for the area ensuring adequate water quality, pressure, and volume to support its future growth," he added.
"I’m excited about the opportunity to see the opportunity to solve this issue for the long suffering residents in Castlecomer, Clogh and Moneenroe."
Cllr Maurice Shortall was similarly pleased, stating, "It's the ideal opportunity now to replace all the old, manganese pipes," he said, adding, "the most important thing now going forward is to keep the pressure on Uisce Eireann, and we get timelines."
UISCE EIREANN STATEMENT: "Uisce Éireann can confirm that we have briefed local councillors on the next steps required to secure a safe, reliable and sustainable water supply for the Castlecomer area," a spokesperson for the body said.
"Castlecomer currently draws water from a combination of groundwater sources. These sources no longer have the capacity to meet the community’s needs today and cannot support future growth. As part of our commitment to strengthening water resilience, Uisce Éireann has been progressing.
"Investigations focused on developing new groundwater sources for Castlecomer. While early investigations showed potential, the volume of water available was ultimately not sufficient to meet the long‑term needs of the area. In parallel, we assessed several alternative options, including links to neighbouring water supply systems," they continued.
"Following this detailed analysis, an interconnection to another water source has been identified as the preferred solution, with the proposed approach being to connect Castlecomer to the Kilkenny City (Troyswood) Water Resource Zone. This option offers the most secure and sustainable long‑term supply for the community.
"Work is now progressing through the next phase of the project lifecycle, including commencing engagement with landowners impacted by the preferred option and the road authority. This will be followed by ground investigations and a submission for planning consent for the associated infrastructure in Q4 2026. Once all necessary approvals are in place, the project will move to tender and then to construction.
"Our priority is to ensure Castlecomer has a reliable water supply that meets current demand, supports future growth and safeguards the community against outages. We will continue to keep councillors, stakeholders and the wider community updated as the project advances," the spokesperson concluded.