Clarke Concerned Over Maghera Flooding Report Delay

“Action needs to be taken to prevent a recurrence of any possible future flooding which xa0badly affected so many people. [caption id="attachment_27806" align="alignleft" width="200" caption="Down District Councillor Patrick Clarke is concerned at the delay in a DARD flood report for Maghera.xa0"][/caption] “Maghera is now a designated flood risk area, as illustrated on flood maps on the DARD Rivers Agency website. Insurance companies now use this reference and I would be concerned that owners of properties in Maghera may have difficulty in obtaining affordable insurance if the DARD Rivers Agency does not make any corrections that are required in regards to flood risk management. “It is my understanding that DARD Rivers Agency prepared a pre-feasibility report on the Leitrim/Ballybannon River for Maghera, which was to be looked at by Engineers in the Rivers Agency Head Quarters.xa0 Consultants were to be asked by the Rivers Agency to conduct a detailed study of the matters of concern and report to the Rivers Agency.” “I have made written representations to DARD Rivers Agency requesting clarification as to the present situation regarding Maghera village and what necessary action that DARD Rivers Agency propose to take to prevent any future river flooding to residential and business properties in Maghera and to improve flood protection.” A spokesperson for DARD said, “DARD Rivers Agency appreciates the length of time it has taken to deal with this matter, however, the detailed investigation has been undertaken in line with competing priorities and available resources.xa0 DARD Rivers Agency aims to complete its detailed investigations and associated report by March 2012. “These investigations are examining options to reduce the risk of flooding along with associated costs and benefits.xa0 If an option is identified for which the benefits outweigh the costs, the timing of works will be dependent on competing priorities for available funding. “As a matter of course Rivers Agency will inform the public and the Council of the outcome of its investigations and make the associated report publically available. “In the interim information is available through NI Direct for property owners to help them take action to manage the risk of flooding.xa0 In addition members of the public who need assistance during flooding can telephone the Flood Incident Line on 0300 2000 100. “]]>