Historic water pump is returned to Ballyduff

A historically significant water pump in Ballyduff village has been relocated to a more prominent location in the village, having previously been removed a number of months ago.

Much to the dismay of locals, the pump was removed to facilitate the construction of a new residence in the area.

That disused pump was temporarily removed to allow for the provision of appropriate sight lines as per the conditional planning permission.

Cllr John O’Leary spoke on the issue back in July, saying that such a landmark deserves its place in the village.

“As a result of a planning permission for a house in the village of Ballyduff, it saw the removal of the village pump, which has been in situ there since the mid-forties.

“This has been met by residents with absolute condemnation, anger and disbelief. It is unacceptable that something as valued and as old as the village pump would be removed to enable planning. It has been a significant landmark in the village.

Addressing Senior Council Executives at the time, Cllr O'Leary said, "What I’m asking is that the village pump be relocated in line with the demeanour it was set in and in the same area."

Recently, the pump was relocated to the Village Green across from the church, and has been surrounded by a newly built brick structure.

Locals Christy O'Keeffe, Daniel Murphy, Tony O Leary, Paul Millea, Jim O'Brien and Joe O'Brien all worked hard to ensure the pump found its new home in the village.