Hosepipe ban extended in Meath as water levels remain critically low
The housepipe ban for the Kells-Oldcastle Public Water Supply in Meath has been extended, Uisce Éireann has announced.
The Water Conservation Order, commonly known as a hosepipe ban, will remain in place for an additional six weeks, now running until Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
The decision follows ongoing challenges with low water levels in Lough Bane, the main source supplying the area.
The conservation order was first introduced in early May to safeguard essential water supplies after an extended period of unseasonably dry weather across autumn, winter, and spring.
Since May 2024, rainfall recorded at the Mullingar Met station has been significantly below average, with 974mm measured compared to a historical norm of 1,207mm. This marks a 19pc reduction in rainfall over the period, putting pressure on local water resources.
According to Uisce Éireann, it is expected that water levels will continue to drop during the summer months unless there is a sustained period of rainfall.
The utility body explained that it can take several weeks of consistent rain to restore affected water sources to normal levels.
Michael Cunniffe, Uisce Éireann Water Operations Manager in Meath said: “Although we’ve seen some welcome rainfall in recent weeks, the long-term effects of a dry autumn, winter, and spring are still being felt.”
“Some water sources have not recovered to sustainable levels, and so extending the Water Conservation Order is necessary to protect this vulnerable supply. That’s why we are reminding everyone to continue to conserve water. Every drop counts.”
“The efforts by the public to date are greatly appreciated and alongside our work to reduce leakage and manage the network, have played a vital role in protecting Lough Bane.
"If the people of Kells-Oldcastle continue to play their part by conserving water, we can reduce the potential of restrictions and outages over the coming weeks and months,” Mr Cunniffe said.
The Water Conservation Order prohibits the use of garden hosepipes and other non-essential uses of water by domestic users and by commercial premises for non-commercial activities. The aim is to safeguard water availability for homes, businesses, and critical services as dry weather conditions persist.
Uisce Éireann is encouraging everyone in the affected area to take simple steps to conserve water. Tips include checking for leaks, using watering cans instead of hoses, turning off taps while brushing teeth, opting for showers instead of baths, and ensuring dishwashers and washing machines are fully loaded before use.
They added that turning a five-minute shower into a four-minute one can save up to 7 litres of water per day, while storing cold water in the fridge instead of running the tap can save up to 10 litres daily.