NI Water plan to address foul smell in Downpatrick

NI Water plan to address foul smell in Downpatrick

28 July 2021

NORTHERN Ireland Water has unveiled a plan to address a foul smelling odour which is impacting on residents in various parts of Downpatrick.

A number who live in the Vianstown, Cathedral View, Pemberton Park, Braeside and Flying Horse areas have reported the smell issue for a long period of time which is being linked to parts of the town’s sewerage system.

On Monday night, local councillor Oonagh Hanlon — who has been working closely with NI Water to bring about a resolution to the problem — met with a number of concerned residents.

She said the utility company has begun a process to acquire additional land to construct a new, larger permanent chemical dosing plant at its pumping station in the Flying Horse area.

Cllr Hanlon explained that this will enable increased effluent to be treated in a bid to address the odour issue.

She continued: “NI Water’s trade effluent and trade compliance teams are working closely with local traders in a bid to reduce, or remove, possible sources of this odour from entering the sewer system.

“Residents have endured years of this horrid smell which has been affecting their quality of living. I will continue to work closely with NI Water officials seeking a final resolution to this issue.” 

Slieve Croob councillor, Cathy Mason, who joined Cllr Hanlon for Monday night’s meeting, said that for too long, residents have had to put up with an “unbearable smell” from sewers.

She added: “I welcome NI Water confirmation that it is committed to resolving the issue. Elected representatives will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that it is resolved once and for all.”