Mourne’s Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has welcomed the commitment of Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard to the delivery of a flood alleviation scheme at the Shimna River location in Newcastle.
Councillor Clarke said: “The Minister in a response to my lobbying, outlined the progress that has been made by DARD Rivers Agency
“This work is being commenced following the serious flooding which occurred on 16 August 2008 in the Bryansford Avenue, Shimna Rd, Elmgrove Park, Larchfield Park, Beechfield park and Marguerite areas of Newcastle, when many homes were destroyed by the flooding.”
“DARD economists have approved the economic appraisal for the Newcastle flood alleviation scheme in July 2016, this is now with Department of Finance, subject to funding and final approval by the department of finance, Rivers Agency intend to appoint a design consultant, later this financial year.
“Following this detailed design, it is hoped that construction works will commence in the financial year, 2018-19. This flood alleviation scheme will protect hundreds of homes from potential flooding.”
