Commencement of targeted flushing programme in Cork City in response to increased instances of discoloration

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section.

Uisce Éireann has commencing a targeted flushing programme in a number of areas across Cork City in response to increased reports of discoloration.

Our dedicated Cork City Discoloration Taskforce continue to closely monitor instances of discoloration and monitoring has shown increased levels. Additional sampling has commenced, and we are liaising with the HSE.

Uisce Éireann continues to advise not to drink discoloured water. In the event of discolouration, running the tap for several minutes - we recommend up to 20 minutes - will usually restore water to a clear colour. The water is safe to drink once running clear. If the issue remains unresolved, we encourage customers to contact us directly. The customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. Customers reporting instances of discolouration help us to determine flushing locations on the network.

Targeted flushing works commenced today and will continue over the weekend. 

Planned flushing commenced today, Friday 30th August in: 

• Douglas Road and surrounding areas 
• South Douglas Road and surrounding areas 
• Blarney Street, Cathedral Road, Gurranabraher and surrounding areas 
• Glenthorne 
• Delaney Park

Flushing works will continue from tomorrow, Saturday 31st August in: 

• Boreenmanna Road and all surrounding estates 
• Greenmount, Bandon Road 
• Bandon Road 
• McCurtain Villas 
• Rathmore Road and all surrounding areas 

As works progress through each area, signage will be put in place. Customers are also advised to check the supply and services webpage.

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. 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.

Uisce Éireann thanks customers for their patience as we continue to work to reduce instances of discolouration across Cork City, and regrets any inconvenience caused. 

For more information and advice, please visit our water quality page. Uisce Éireann has launched a free text service, providing real-time updates on local supply issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number on our Water Updates page.