People across the Shannonside Northern sound region are being encouraged to examine closely a series of plans for water services in the coming years.
Irish Water today launched public consultation on providing a more secure and reliable drinking water supply over the next 25 years for the midlands and eastern part of the country.
Upgrades of some local water treatment plants, as well as the decommissioning of others are among the plans.
A controversial pipeline from the River Shannon to Dublin remains part of its preferred approach for the region and will also help serve the needs of Athlone.
Overall almost 600 water sources - including rivers, lakes and desalinated seawater - have been considered to boost supplies in the east and midlands.
Mairead Conlon is assets planning specialist with Irish Water
She explains why some local treatment plants will be taken out of production.
