Hosepipe ban lifted for Meath communities as residents urged to keep saving water
The hosepipe ban for the Kells/Oldcastle Regional Water Supply in Meath is set to officially end.
The lift will start on Monday, October 13, bringing relief to households and businesses across Meath.
While restrictions will be lifted, residents are being urged to continue using water “responsibly”.
During the spring and summer, the efforts of the Kells, Oldcastle, and surrounding communities in reducing water usage and reporting leaks were crucial in protecting the local supply.
“We’re extremely grateful to the people in the wider Kells/Oldcastle area for their efforts to conserve water over the spring and summer,” Michael Cunniffe, Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann, said.
“Now that the hosepipe ban is lifted, it’s more important than ever that we don’t lose momentum. While Lough Bane has seen some mild recharge with the heavy rainfall since autumn arrived, it will take time for the lake to fully recover. The recharge of a spring fed lake is dependent on consistent rainfall over autumn and winter.”
Mr Cunniffe added: “We’re doing everything we can via network initiatives to protect and maintain the water supply, but we also need the public’s continued support to protect the supply and the lake. Even small changes in how we use water can make a big difference.”
Meanwhile residents are encouraged to adopt simple water-saving measures such as turning off taps while brushing teeth, using showers instead of baths, shortening shower times, fully loading washing machines and dishwashers, and avoiding hoses for garden or car washing.