DfI reaffirms commitment to flood alleviation in Downpatrick
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Downpatrick community through strategic flood alleviation efforts, following the publication of the Downpatrick Flood Alleviation Scheme Feasibility Report earlier this year.
Speaking with the Downpatrick Regeneration Group on Thursday 7th August, representatives from DfI’s Rivers Directorate also provided an update on long-term capital interventions and operational measures, building on discussions held with the Minister in June.
They also emphasised the Department’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and delivering practical solutions that reflect the needs of those most affected.
The feasibility study, commissioned after the severe flooding in Downpatrick in November 2023, identified viable solutions to protect over 100 properties.
Further work is now being undertaken to develop a business case for the potential flood alleviation scheme, including a detailed assessment to determine if this preferred option will be economically feasible.
The Department continues to deliver targeted watercourse maintenance in the area and provides emergency support along with its partners in line with civil contingency frameworks.
Misconceptions around dredging and barrier removal were also addressed at the meeting, with detailed flood modelling confirming these would not reduce flood risk.
Community engagement remains central to the Department’s approach. I
In November 2024, the Downpatrick Regional Community Resilience Group (RCRG) was established, bringing together local businesses, Newry Mourne and Down District Council, and government agencies to strengthen preparedness and
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McMurray MLA seeks reassurances about flood proposals
South Down Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray, on addressing the visit of the Drainage Division to Downpatrick, said: “I was pleased to attend a meeting with DfI officials and the Downpatrick Regeneration Group to discuss the Downpatrick Feasibility Report in relation to flood prevention.
“The report explores a range of potential works to reduce the risk of flooding in the town, with a combination of town and river defences emerging as the Department’s preferred option.
“The 2023 floods in Downpatrick have been absolutely devastating, and the town is still recovering from its impact.
“I have consistently supported local businesses affected by the floods and have pressured the Ministers for Infrastructure and the Economy in relation to regeneration funding and flood prevention.
“In the context of climate change, flooding is becoming more frequent. It is therefore important that DfI gets the planned flood defenses right and that the necessary works can proceed without delay.
“I was concerned about a number of potential stumbling blocks that were raised in the feasibility report in relation to the economic viability of the proposed works.
“I am worried that the plans might be thrown off course as a result. While officials gave reassurances that the project is being given the high priority it deserves, large scale infrastructure projects can face multiple challenges along the way, but it is imperative that the Department delivers on this vital project.
“With this in mind, I have asked a number of questions about the risk assessment carried out by DfI and any potential mitigations that are being put in place to ensure that the works required to progress these vital flood defenses are not derailed.
“And I will continue pushing for the timely delivery of this vital scheme.”
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