Last week, Cathaoirleach of Dungarvan/Lismore District Council, Cllr. Pat Nugent hosted a reception for Modeligo camogie team.
The team won the Munster Junior camogie title in November 2024 and following this fantastic title win, will now be playing senior camogie for the first time ever in the history of the club.
Congratulations to all the players, management team, and supporters on a phenomenal season!
Please note the following changes to Customer Service office opening hours:
Dungarvan & Waterford City customer service desks will remain closed to the public until 10:00 AM on the following dates:
Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Stay up-to-date with the latest planning applications and decisions in Waterford City and County. Each Friday, we publish a comprehensive list detailing new applications, permissions granted, and other updates. Access the latest planning lists here to stay informed about developments in your area.
The National Built Heritage Service (NBHS), Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage has just announced the launch of the 2025 Conservation Advice Scheme for Vacant Traditional Houses. The Conservation Advice Grant Scheme for Vacant Traditional Houses is an expanded funding scheme to provide grants for expert conservation advice to owners of vacant traditional houses who are availing of, or considering, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant. The Conservation Advice Grant Scheme provides grants to cover 67% of the costs (up to a maximum grant of €5,000) of having a conservation expert with proven and appropriate expertise:
This expert advice will include a report which outlines the condition of the building and identifies conservation improvements which would restore it to use while enhancing its character, energy efficiency, integrity, and amenity.
Stream 1 of the scheme is open to owners of vacant traditional houses in villages, towns and cities where the building is a Protected Structure and/or an historic structure within an Architectural Conservation Area. Buildings previously used for commercial purposes also qualify for the scheme where the intended use is as a single dwelling or a single dwelling over a shop.
Stream 2 of the scheme will provide grant support for the provision of expert conservation advice to private owners of vacant traditional farmhouses, where the building one of the following:
Vernacular farmhouses comprise modest homes constructed by people without formal training following long established folk traditions, using materials such as thatch, stone, slate, earth, wattle and unsawn timber.
The aim of the scheme is to help owners of traditionally constructed houses to understand the heritage value and potential of these structures and to prompt them to consider investments which could protect and enhance that value.
The deadline for application is the 2nd May 2025, only eligible and fully completed applications will be accepted. Please note that as this is a competitive application process, only the highest scoring projects will be chosen in line with the available funding budget. Unsuccessful applications will not be carried through to any subsequent approved grant scheme. All applications will be assessed under the following criteria:
Please see the following link for further information and relevant documentation: gov.ie – Conservation Advice Grant Scheme for Vacant Traditional Houses
Application forms can be accessed here: gov.ie – Conservation Advice Grant Scheme for Vacant Traditional Houses
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On Wednesday, April 9th Waterford City and County Council hosted a Housing Conference in the Granville Hotel highlighting the necessity to accelerate the increase in housing output from both public and private sectors, building on the strong momentum in delivery over the past 12 months.
Representatives from major employers and the construction industry were present as Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive, Sean McKeown and private sector employers outlined the critical need for cross-sector collaboration to deliver housing not only for balanced social development but also to support economic growth.
Keynote speakers included Ivan Grimes, Director of Services for Planning at Waterford City and County Council; Keith Williams, Capital Projects Manager SETU; Brian McGee, Regional Enterprise Development Manager IDA; James Mernin, Site Lead Red Hat; Mark Hennessy, VP Operations Baush+Lomb, and Noel Frisby, Director Frisby Construction.
Mr. McKeown said, “Waterford is a city and county on the rise, growing faster than the national average, attracting record public and private investment. But to sustain this momentum, we need to accelerate the momentum in housing delivery across all tenures, especially in the private sector.
“The Council is committed to delivering our Housing for All target of 1,130 social homes by 2026. We are well on the way to meeting that target, with over 300 units delivered last year and a further 350 units will be completed this year.”
Mr. McKeown added “We need to activate the sites already in the pipeline, bring forward new developments and ensure we have the housing our people, businesses and economy need to thrive.”
Keith Williams of SETU outlined the need for additional housing for the student population as numbers are set to increase by 18% across the entire University over the next 10 years, equating to approximately 2,800 additional students.
Brian McGee, Regional Enterprise Development Manager, IDA Ireland, stressed the importance of continuing investment, with balanced regional development identified as one of the core pillars of IDA Ireland’s latest five-year strategy, Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation, 2025-29.
The shortage in rental and purchase supply, particularly in executive housing, along with greater connectivity routes to Dublin Airport and a general lack of retail offerings were cited by James Mernin, Red Hat Site Lead as issues that had been identified, particularly when it comes to attracting talent from areas outside the region, such as Dublin.
Mark Hennessy, VP Operations, Bausch+Lomb said that as the largest private sector employer in Waterford with 1,600 staff, housing is vital in continuing to attract new talent to Waterford.
Noel Frisby of Frisby Construction shared the vision of the former Waterford Crystal offices and showrooms, now being reimagined as an Enterprise and Innovation campus to drive investment and employment growth through collaboration of industry and academia.
Ivan Grimes, Waterford City and County Council reiterated the Council’s commitment to the provision of social and affordable housing units and to continuing to tackle vacancy and dereliction, saying, “Delivery of a range of initiatives such as the Repair and Leasing Scheme (RLS) and the Affordable Purchase Scheme has long-term benefits, as it not only provides assistance to the provision of new homes, but this commitment and ongoing investment in the provision of social and affordable housing will also act as a catalyst for the private sector to provide larger homes as families grow and look to upsize.”
Waterford is bucking the trend. While there was a decline in completion of housing units last year nationally of approximately 6%, there was an almost 25% increase in house completions across Waterford city and county.
Following consultation with the Health Service Executive (HSE), Uisce Éireann has issued a Boil Water Notice to protect the health of approximately 84 customers supplied by the Poulnagunogue (Poulavonogue) Public Water Supply.
This notice is being issued due to elevated turbidity, which has affected treatment at the water treatment plant.
Please note that there are two Poulavanogue supplies in the Clonmel area. This notice relates to the small scheme historically managed by Waterford County Council.
Customers can check if their property is included by visiting the water quality section and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278.
A map of the area is below and available to view on the supply and service section.
All consumers affected by this notice must boil their water before drinking.
Uisce Éireann’s Maura Phelan acknowledged the impact this notice will have on the community, and assured customers that we are working to safely lift this notice in the shortest possible timeframe.
“We regret any inconvenience caused to impacted customers. The notice has been put in place to protect the health of customers on the Waterford Poulavanogue Public Water Supply. Public health is our number one priority, and we would like to assure customers that we are working to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible.”
Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances, immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue to enable the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.
Vulnerable customers registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on Boil Water Notices. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.
Water must be boiled for:
• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice – discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.
What actions should be taken:
• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, except for natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula, it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. A ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.
Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.
Uisce Éireann is committed to keeping customers informed across multiple platforms 24/7 and we encourage customers to engage with us through our website, X channels @IWCare and @IrishWater, on Facebook and LinkedIn and through our customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.
Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at the text alerts page.
A short section of one of Waterford’s most popular walking trails, Crough Wood Walk will be closed from the week beginning 14th April until 31st May 2025 for essential embankment stabilization works, being carried out by Waterford City and County Council. The section of trail occurs approximately 1.8 kms northwest of Mahon Bridge Car Park along a 150-metre approx. section of trail (Gps: 52.211331, -7.520525).
We ask all trail users to obey safety signage and do not enter the works area for the duration of the project. The rest of the trail will remain open to walkers either side of the works site. We would like to thank visitors for their cooperation whilst the works are ongoing and apologize for any inconvenience caused.
We would also like to acknowledge the support of Coillte and Comeragh Community Development Group with regard to this project and the ongoing maintenance and development of Crough Wood as a fantastic amenity for locals and visitors alike. Waterford City and County Council would like to warmly congratulate Crough Woods and Comeragh Community Development Group on winning the Community Woodland Award at the 2025 RDS Irish Forest and Woodland Awards held on 10th April last at the RDS, Dublin. Check out www.waterfordcouncil.ie and social media for project updates. For details of all our recreational trails across Waterford log onto https://visitwaterford.com/trails/
Waterford City and County Council was delighted to recognise the contributions from our wonderful community groups at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy presented the awards in City Hall and was emphatic in his praise for the community and voluntary sector, saying, “ We are here this evening not only to acknowledge your participation in the parade but to take time to appreciate your greater contribution to society. Our Grand Marshall was Thomas Barr, whom you are all familiar with. Like all young people who go on to achieve great things, Thomas began his career under the stewardship of volunteers in his community in Ferrybank.
“Thomas is a great example of how important the community and voluntary sector is. Volunteers often become the best role models that young people can aspire to and that is a priceless asset for anyone to have in their life. The voluntary sector helps cultivate so many of our cherished stars and entertainers, every hurler that you watch on TV and every musician that you hear on radio started their career with the help of a community volunteer. You provide us with all these things and you do it without charge, selflessly giving your time for the benefit of others. Society truly could not function as it does without you, I congratulate you all and I implore you to keep up the good work.”
Uisce Éireann is developing plans to upgrade 2 km of water network in Waterford City to support future development. This project will enhance the capacity and performance of the existing water network.
The work involves upgrading and upsizing 2 km of water mains at Vincent White Road; R686 as far as Kingsmeadow Roundabout; R680 from Kingsmeadow Roundabout to junction of R680 Cork Road / Claremont Road; and from junction of R680 Cork Road / Claremont Road to junction of Ballybeg Drive and Ballybeg Park housing estate.
Site investigation works which commenced today are planned to take three weeks and will support development of designs for the planned upgrades. When complete Uisce Éireann will then advance the required statutory and regulatory approvals for the new infrastructure necessary to improve the water network in the City.
Donal O’Connor, programme manager with Uisce Éireann, commented on the benefits of the upgrades to Waterford City: “These upgrades will ensure that the water network is fit for purpose, supporting sustainable growth and development. They will also enhance the resilience of the drinking water network, allowing communities to thrive. We would like to thank the people of Waterford City in advance for their patience and support as we finalise the design and carry out these essential works.”
These vital upgrades are being delivered through Uisce Éireann’s Growth and Development Programme. This national initiative focuses on targeted investment to enhance the capacity of water and wastewater infrastructure. The aim is to support social and economic growth, including the provision of essential housing.
Shareridge is carrying out the works on Uisce Éireann’s behalf.
We commit to keeping the local community updated as the details of this project are finalised.
Uisce Éireann is committed to keeping customers informed across multiple platforms 24/7 and we encourage customers to engage with us through our website www.water.ie, X channels @IWCare and @IrishWater, on Facebook and LinkedIn and through our customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.
Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at www.water.ie
Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment. To find out more visit www.water.ie
Now in its 10th year, the annual Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Charity Cycle will take place on Easter Sunday, April 20th.
Starting from Lemybrien at 9am, with registration from 8am, there is the option of a 50k or 30k cycle, so whatever your ability or fitness levels, it’s a fun, healthy way to support a worthy cause.
Speaking of the event, Cllr. Liam Brazil, who was one of the founders of the Charity Cycle said, “This cycle is all about promoting positive mental health and trying to reduce the stigma that’s attached to both mental health and suicide.
“Every year we lose more than 500 people to suicide in Ireland and that is 500 families mourning the loss of a loved one and forever trying to understand why? Statistics from the U.S. show that each suicide affects a large circle of 135 people who may be in need of support following a suicide death.
“If we can get people on their bikes, out in the beautiful countryside and talking about their mental health, that goes a very long way to alleviating the pain and pressures that they may be feeling.”
“The message is it that it is okay to not feel okay and mental health should be talked about openly the same way a physical illness can be discussed openly. By removing the stigma, we can create a more open and understanding society, where everybody is comfortable talking about their mental health.”
The 10th Mental Health & Suicide Awareness 50k and 30k Charity Cycle will take in the picturesque villages of Kilmacthomas, Kilmeaden, Kill, Bunmahon and Durrow. Entry is €25 per person.
To register or to donate visit https://suicideorsurvive.ie/event/waterford-charity-cycle-50k-and-30k/
Stay up-to-date with the latest planning applications and decisions in Waterford City and County. Each Friday, we publish a comprehensive list detailing new applications, permissions granted, and other updates. Access the latest planning lists here to stay informed about developments in your area.
If you are an approved housing applicant with Waterford City & County Council, you must inform the Housing Applications team in the Council if you change address. Failure to inform the
Housing Applications team of a change of address will result in removal from the social housing list.
Send current proof of your new address, utility bill, lease or rental statement to Housing Applications, Baileys New Street, Waterford or scan to housingapplications@waterfordcouncil.ie with your contact details.
To be considered for an allocation with Waterford City & County Council please engage with Choice Based Lettings (CBL) via www.waterfordcouncil.ie and make an expression of interest.
Waterford City and County Council has granted planning permission to Harcourt Developments (t/a Hopcast Limited) for the development of the first phase of the Waterford North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ).
The mixed-use development will include significant residential accommodation, as well as office and hotel accommodation, retail offerings and high-quality public realm spaces consisting of:
The SDZ development places a significant emphasis on connecting the north and south quays, and improving the public realm through investment in new high quality civic spaces, including sustainable transport infrastructure, which will connect the Waterford and the South-East Greenways via the city centre and new sustainable transport bridge.
Commenting on the planning decision, Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council said, “This is a momentous day for Waterford and the wider region. The North Quays Infrastructure Project is progressing well, with the impressive integrated transport hub on Frank Cassin Wharf, the construction of the five access bridges over the rail corridor and new greenway, and the much anticipated arrival of the sustainable transport bridge from Belgium next month.
“This next phase of development on the North Quays is hugely significant as it amplifies the potential for jobs, investment, and residential and commercial development.”
The direct benefit to Waterford of the investment in the SDZ Site is anticipated to be in excess of €350m over the next six years, with 200 people employed during construction and upwards of 1,500 jobs to be created following completion of phase one of the development.
Construction of the private SDZ development is anticipated to start later this year.
Harcourt Developments is a Dublin-based property development and management company with a broad portfolio of award-winning projects, that boasts Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, Northern Ireland’s most important regeneration project. The Titanic Quarter is a vibrant, mixed-use scheme of commercial space, plus residential, retail, and hospitality and tourism spaces.
Harcourt’s experience in developing Belfast’s Titanic Quarter will be invaluable in delivering the North Quays development, which comprises many similar elements. The main objective of the North Quays is to attract further investment in Waterford City from indigenous and multinational companies, expanding the tourism and hospitality sectors in addition to increasing the housing stock.
The Land Development Agency is also engaging with Harcourt in respect of the residential elements of the project. These investments are integral in achieving the objectives set out on the National Planning Framework, which calls for the rapid expansion of Waterford city to over 85,000 people.
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Images – Douglas Wallace Architects
