IRISH Water is to undertake a survey of the sewer network in Limerick, in an effort to improve the performance of the wastewater network.
Working in partnership with Limerick City and County Council, the survey will also work towards protecting the environment as well as supporting social and economic development over the coming years.
The works, to be carried out by Precision Industrial Services, involve using CCTV to survey almost 22 kilometres of sewers, mapping and inspecting an estimated 2,000 manholes, and monitoring the wastewater and rainwater flows in the network.
This will assess the capacity, condition and performance level of the sewer network and prioritise sewers in need of upgrade. The results of the survey will, in turn, inform the Drainage Area Plans for Limerick City.
“This work is part of Irish Water’s commitment to protecting Ireland’s waterways and coastal areas and ensuring that the wastewater infrastructure is in place to support population growth and economic development,” explained Eunan Canavan, Capital Programmes Regional Lead.
“Much of the sewer network is in poor condition due to its age and decades of under-investment. In addition, only a small portion of it has been accurately mapped and assessed to determine its condition.
“Data gathered from this project will allow us to improve the wastewater treatment network across Limerick city by identifying the areas most urgently in need of upgrading and allowing us to plan our investment so that we can meet the needs of these communities now and into the future”.
Works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Water’s Business Plan. Delivery of the business plan will involve a €5.5 billion investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.
