The County Tipperary Chamber is voicing concerns about the significant cost implications for local businesses as Uisce Eireann moves forward with plans to transition Clonmel from a soft to a hard water supply.
This change is expected to have a profound financial impact on the business community, potentially affecting operations and profitability. Businesses will have to install softeners and pumps and will incur ongoing salt and maintenance costs to ensure equipment such a coffee machines, beer chillers and heating systems are not damaged by a build-up of lime scale. Uisce Eireann says it is not obliged to treat the water before distribution and that it’s focus is on providing a reliable supply of water. Residential properties that are switched to the new supply will also be faced with the cost of installing a water softener to avoid long term damage to washing machines, irons, dishwashers and coffee machines.
The Chamber is arranging a meeting with relevant Ministers to seek a financial support package for business operators facing additional expense. The new hard source is expected to be in the network in early 2026 as work has now commenced to upgrade the Monroe Water Treatment plant – the new water source, the Rathronan pumping station and the installation of 15km of mains water pipes.
