Cautious optimism expressed over Uisce Éireann works between these two Kildare regions

A local representative has expressed cautious optimism over Uisce Éireann (UE) works between two County Kildare regions.

Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender has welcomed the announcement of major UE works between Two Mile House and Newbridge.

Previously, UE confirmed that the next phase of works will involve the upgrade of approximately 10.8 kilometres of water main between Two Mile House and Newbridge, with works due to begin in early April and the overall project expected to continue until late 2027.

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However, Cllr Pender also emphasised that locals who have been dealing with poor water pressure for years now "need clear answers" from UE on when they will see "real improvement" in their own homes.

Cllr Pender elaborated: "Any investment in Newbridge’s water network is welcome; people have been raising concerns about water pressure and capacity in the area for a long time, so it is positive to see works progressing.

"But residents will want a straight answer to a very simple question: when will people actually feel the benefit in their own homes"

He continued: "This project is being presented as supporting future growth and development in the Newbridge area, and that makes it even more important that existing households, many of whom have been dealing with poor pressure for years, are not left behind.

"We cannot have a situation where infrastructure is only ever upgraded after communities have already been left struggling.

"If UE now accepts that major works are needed, then there also needs to be honesty about how long residents have been waiting and when that will finally change."

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'KEY ISSUES'

Cllr Pender asserted that he will now be seeking clarity from UE on "three key issues":

• "When existing households can expect a measurable improvement in water pressure"
• "Clarity on what level of additional capacity this project is intended to provide"
• "What steps will be taken to make sure current residents are not carrying the burden while future development is facilitated"

Cllr Pender also stressed that local residents should be kept fully informed by UE throughout the project: "Residents need proper communication, proper notice of any interruptions, and proper accountability on outcomes."

"Investment is important, but what matters to people is whether they can turn on the tap at home and see an actual improvement," he added.

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph

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FURTHER APPROVAL

In contrast, Newbridge-based Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin has fully welcomed the works.

Speaking about the latest development, she said: "Newbridge continues to grow in size and regional importance, so it is essential that our infrastructure keeps pace.

"The completion of this first phase is a significant step forward and will help support the delivery of new housing, ensuring our community can continue to thrive.

"Investing in infrastructure today will deliver long term benefits, enabling sustainable growth and improving quality of life for residents across the area."

Senator O'Loughlin concluded: "This project will strengthen the resilience of our water network, support existing communities and create the capacity needed for future homes and development."

The first section of water works will commence outside Two Mile House on the Corbally Road, L2032, progressing towards Harbour Road from Tuesday, April 7, 2026 to the end of May.

A stop-go traffic management system will be in operation during this phase.

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin. File photograph

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Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme