Dry spell forces overnight water curbs in West Cork

Uisce Éireann has announced overnight water restrictions for customers supplied by the Abbeystrowry Reservoir in West Cork.

The measures, which will remain in place until 7am on Monday, August 18th, are aimed at ensuring supply to households, businesses and industries during daytime hours.

The utility said the restrictions were necessary due to a combination of increased summer demand and ongoing dry weather. The areas affected include Lisheens, Baltimore, Sherkin Island, Ballydehob, Schull and Heir Island.

Customers in Crookhaven may also experience low water pressure until 5pm tomorrow as maintenance works take place at the local treatment plant. As that supply is also under pressure from high demand, overnight restrictions will be introduced there from Thursday, August 14th, continuing each night until August 18th.

Michael Bell, Water Network Operations Manager with Uisce Éireann, said the night-time measures were intended to cause the least disruption possible. “We are mindful of the duration of the restrictions, but it is essential to safeguard continuous daytime supply and allow the reservoir the breathing space to replenish,” he said. “We do understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we would like to apologise to customers and thank them for their patience.”

Earlier this month, night-time restrictions were in place on the Abbeystrowry Reservoir supply from August 7th to 9th, during which time the reservoir recovered sufficiently. Mr Bell said the supply at both Abbeystrowry and Crookhaven would be closely monitored over the coming days.

Uisce Éireann has urged customers in the affected areas to conserve water. Simple actions such as turning off the tap while brushing teeth or shaving can save up to six litres per minute, while keeping a jug of water in the fridge rather than running the cold tap can save up to 10 litres a day. In gardens, the utility advises using recycled water from food preparation or washing up to water plants and lawns.

A Water Conservation Order remains in place for Cork County, excluding the city, until September 16th.

Customers may notice discolouration in their supply each morning due to the restrictions. Running the cold kitchen tap for several minutes should restore clear water, which is safe to drink once clear. If the problem persists, Uisce Éireann advises contacting its helpline on 1800 278 278. Vulnerable customers who have registered with the utility receive direct communications for planned or unplanned outages lasting more than four hours.

Further updates on water services and supply issues are available at water.ie.