McMurray MLA welcomes Forest Service works tackling flooding
Andrew McMurray MLA has welcomed Forest Service works to reduce flood risk in the Tullybrannigan area of Newcastle.
The South Down MLA said: “After the flooding in October 2025, residents of Newcastle’s Tullybrannigan area raised concerns that the condition of drainage infrastructure on Forest Service land might have contributed to the incident.
“I immediately raised these concerns with Minister Muir and DAERA’s Forest Service and have been working with them ever since to address the underlying issues.
“I recently followed up with the Minister and was delighted to receive confirmation that extensive works have already been carried out.
“These include removal of excess material from drainage channels and culvert upgrades to increase flow capacity of the drainage network.
“Additionally, flood mediation measures have been installed across forest roads to channel water into roadside drains and reduce risk of blockages.
“The forest roadside drain adjacent to Sunningdale Drive has seen its capacity increased to reduce the risk of overspill
“Forest Service is further actively pursuing the potential to upgrade the culvert servicing the outlet from the forest at this location.
“I was also reassured to hear that Forest Service has arrangements in place to deploy resources to monitor and take pre-emptive action and respond to flooding issues.
“I welcome these works and thank Minister Muir for responding to my constituents’ concerns and acting decisively to help prevent future flooding in the Tullybrannigan area.”
