2025:319 - Ballypatrick to Kylanoreashy, Tipperary

Uisce Éireann is replacing old water pipes between Ballypatrick and Kylanoreashy, County Tipperary, over a distance of 5.6 km. The upgrade involves installing new plastic pipes (HDPE) to replace smaller, older ones made of PVC and asbestos cement.

Due the nature of the works and following the findings of the preceding cultural heritage assessment the groundwork involved archaeological monitoring of the excavations. Part of the pipeline crosses through a protected zone for an archaeological site – Enclosure (TS078-039). Because of this, an archaeological license was obtained, and both continuous monitoring and random spot checks were required throughout the project. Archaeological monitoring took place between 8 July and 24 September 2025. Excavation included digging pits and trenches along local roads, including where the pipeline crosses the N76.

Different digging methods were used: trial pits, open-cut trenching, and pits with horizontal drilling. The soil layers were fairly consistent throughout the route – a mix of tarmac, gravel, clay, sand, and in some places, limestone bedrock.

No archaeology was discovered during any part of the excavation.