Uisce Éireann to commence flushing of water pipes on Cork's northside

Flushing works are set to get underway in the Glen on Thursday as part of the next phase of Uisce Éireann’s flushing plan for the northside of the city aimed at addressing water discolouration issues.

The water utility company said flushing will take place in Glen Avenue, Mangerton Close, Avoca Crescent, Comeragh Park, Brandon Crescent, Glen View Park, Mourne Avenue and Errigal Heights.

“This is the start of the next phase of our extensive flushing plan for the northside of Cork city that will be undertaken over the coming weeks,” said Uisce Éireann water operations lead Sean Lynch.

“Our goal is to minimise the instances of discolouration for the people of Cork city in targeted areas across Cork city, where reports of discolouration have been received.

“Areas are prioritised based on customer feedback and reports directly to our customer care team.

“It is anticipated that this programme of works will take approximately six weeks.”

The first round of flushing is set to commence at 8pm on Thursday, August 8.

Sediment

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.

According to Uisce Éireann, 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,” the company said.

As works progress through the area, Uisce Éireann said signage will be put in place.