Minister Darragh O’Brien, TD and officials from Irish Water and Meath County Council has turned the sod on an €11.8m contract that will provide a more reliable water supply for existing homes and businesses in Ratoath, Kilbride and Ashbourne. The project will also support social and economic growth and development in areas which have seen significant growth in recent years. The Windmill Hill Reservoir and Trunk Watermain to Ratoath project is just one of a number of strategically important projects to increase the security and resilience of the drinking water supply across County Meath.

The ceremony to mark the commencement of the works was led by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD and supported by Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Councillor Nick Killian. Also in attendance was Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, local TD Darren O’Rourke, and Senator Sharon Keogan and representatives from Irish Water and Meath County Council, as well as local councillors from Ashbourne and Ratoath municipal district, members of the local business community and pupils from St. Andrews National School, Curragha.

Commenting at the event Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, TD: “I am delighted to be here today to officially turn the sod and mark the commencement of these works. The construction of this new reservoir and in turn, the provision of a reliable water service is essential to support the economic and social development of the local area. I would like to commend all those involved in bringing the project to this important day and I would like to wish the project team well as they progress this vital water project.

“This project is critical to enabling us to meet our commitments under Housing for All, to create more businesses and attract more investment. It represents a significant milestone in the provision of a more secure and resilient water supply for Southeast Meath.”

Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Councillor Nick Killian: “This is a significant day for the people of Ratoath, Ashbourne, Curragha and Kilbride. This project will support future population growth of the villages and surrounding areas.  I welcome the commencement of this essential upgrade project by Irish Water and the benefits it will bring to the community.”

William McKnight, Infrastructure Delivery Lead with Irish Water, said “It is really fantastic to be here in Meath this morning as we officially mark the commencement of this project. This is an important milestone in the delivery of a more secure and reliable water supply for our customers in Meath.”

“Along with our Project Management team in Meath County Council and Engineering Service Provider Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd., we have worked closely with the local community and landowners whose cooperation has enabled this project to commence this year.”

“Irish Water is committed to playing its part in the national drive to provide homes to people who need them by developing and prioritising the delivery of key water infrastructure.”

Shareridge Ltd, will be delivering the work on behalf of Irish Water and are expected to be completed in 2024.

Irish Water is responsible for the delivery of all public water and wastewater services in Ireland. We are committed to continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support growth in our economy while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies.