Rogers Calls On Newcastle's Mourneview Residents To Support Sandbag Scheme

Local SDLP representatives South Down MLA Seán Rogers and Mournes Councillor Laura Devlin are calling on residents of the Mourneview area in Newcastle to help roll out a sandbag scheme.

Mr. Rogers and Cllr Devlin have been coordinating a multi-agency approach to address flooding in various areas of the town. Mr. Rogers said: “I have been involved in negotiations with NI Water and Rivers Agency about the ongoing flooding issue in various parts of Newcastle and welcome the progression of a scheme which will hopefully alleviate the risk. We don’t need to look too far to see the devastation flooding can cause and the risk it can pose to homes and want to ensure that all that can be done is being done for the people of Newcastle.

“While the scheme is being progressed, I have managed to secure two sandbag containers for the Burrendale Estate and Mourneview area of the Dundrum Road so that residents have immediate access to sandbags in the event of a flood.” Cllr Devlin added: “We have worked with the all the agencies involved to secure these containers which is a first for this area and a brilliant immediate resource for people whose homes are threatened by flood. I am delighted that Murlough Community Association has agreed to take responsibility for the container in the Burrendale Estate, keeping the keys and letting authorities know when it needs replenished.

“We are really keen for residents of Mourneview to come forward and do the same. Once that is done, the bin can be dispatched as soon as possible. Anyone who would like to get involved should contact the SDLP office and we will set it up.”