Dublin City Council Enacting Temporary Conservation Strategy in Support of Water Conservation Efforts

Dublin City Council will be enacting a temporary change to street washing services for a six-week period, to ensure conservation of water while maintaining public health and safety. 

As Ireland’s largest local authority, the measures are intended to support community-wide efforts in water conversation in the Dublin city area, in response to the current water conservation order issued by Uisce Eireann during the ongoing period of extreme heat. 

Under this revised strategy, Dublin City Council will introduce low-pressure street cleaning using up to 50% less water, in cleaning core high footfall areas of the city. 

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron said:“Uisce Eireann has introduced this water restriction for a good reason and it is important that we all play our part in helping to conserve water whatever way we can. Everyone is expected to do their bit and the City Council is no different. Clearly this will have an affect on some operational areas but water is a vital resource and has to be protected during this ongoing spell of warm weather.”

This revised washing schedule will include areas such as O'Connell Street, Henry Street, North Earl Street, Capel Street, Grafton Street, College Green, Parliament Street and Drury Street.

Prioritising public health and safety, Dublin City Council will continue to respond to:

• Locations presenting public health concerns
• Heavily soiled pavements and problem sites requiring intervention
• Racist and politically motivated graffiti as a priority

Routine washing programmes in other areas will be suspended during the restriction period, with services delivered on a reactive basis where required.

Supporting the water conservation strategy, Derek Kelly, Executive Manager for Environment, Climate & Urban Resilience said: “We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation as we adapt our operations to protect this vital resource during challenging conditions. Dublin City Council is committed to balancing responsible water conservation with essential street cleaning services, ensuring our community spaces remain hygienic and welcoming. Our commitment is to use water wisely while continuing our services to safeguard public health. We will continue to observe and iterate our approach as required, operating with reactive washing where required.”

Following the lifting of water restrictions, Dublin City Council will prioritise a comprehensive programme of street washing to restore the cleanliness of all roads and public spaces within the restriction zones. Dublin City Council remains committed to maintaining the high standards of public hygiene and environmental quality while ensuring the ongoing efficient use of water services. 

ENDS