Residents of Woodlands Estate in Portlaw are a step closer to being connected to the public water supply following a positive update from Uisce Éireann.

Government Chief Whip and Waterford TD Mary Butler says she has received confirmation from the utility that the estate can be connected following an initial assessment.

Uisce Éireann says it now intends to finalise the detailed design and delivery programme by the end of the year, when a more definitive timeline for the project will be confirmed.

The works will be carried out by Uisce Éireann and funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Minister Butler says the development marks significant progress on what she described as a longstanding issue affecting residents for a number of years.

She thanked Housing Minister James Browne for his engagement on the matter and said she was encouraged by the update, adding that it would be welcome news for the many residents she has spoken with in recent weeks and months.

She also acknowledged the work of Waterford Cllr. John O’Leary, who she said had worked closely with her on the issue and met Minister Browne to raise residents’ concerns.

While the connection project is being progressed, existing operation and maintenance arrangements for the estate’s water infrastructure will remain in place until Uisce Éireann completes the works.

Uisce Éireann says it is currently assessing more than 500 legacy developer-provided water and wastewater systems across the country. It expects all technically feasible drinking water schemes to be resolved within 12 to 36 months, subject to statutory approvals and funding.