New scheme to solve Newcastle flooding upheaval

New scheme to solve Newcastle flooding upheaval

12 September 2012

A MAJOR flooding problem which has plagued residents at a Newcastle housing development could finally be resolved.

It has been suggested this week that Northern Ireland Water and the Rivers Agency believe the problem could be solved by separating storm water and sewerage systems at the Mourne View Road estate.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie met recently with officials from both organisations to discuss flooding incidents across Newcastle at the start of July.

News of the meeting was confirmed at Monday night’s meeting of Down Council by Newcastle councillor Carmel O’Boyle.

She revealed officials from the two organisations investigating the July flooding at Mourne View Road had “identified issues” which led to the problems residents experienced after a huge thunderstorm.

Councillor O’Boyle said NI Water and Rivers Agency officials are currently undertaking investigations into the July flood she hopes “will lead to a happy outcome.”

She also revealed the cause of flooding along a section of the Burren River flood alleviation scheme in July has also been identified.

“This news will provide people with some hope. Work is in progress which will hopefully bring about a happy solution,” said Councillor O’Boyle.

She also confirmed further meetings with NI Water and the Rivers Agency to discuss flooding problems in Newcastle will be held early next month.

The main road at the Mourne View estate off the Dundrum Road was under 18 inches of water during last July’s flooding, while one of the other worst affected areas was the Burrendale Park Road estate where a number of homes were swamped with flood water. Raw sewage also spilled from manholes at the rear of the properties, covering several gardens.

A number of roads in the Tullybrannigan area flooded, with a similar situation at Larchfield Park, Elmgrove Park and Beechfield Park off Bryansford Avenue.

The Lidl store in Railway Street was flooded, as was O’Hare’s bar and lounge at Central Promenade, while sports pitches at Donard Park were under several inches of water.