Hazzard Says Forestry Service Must Address Newcastle Flooding Issue
South Down Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has challenged the Forestry Service to improve its performance to help lessen flooding in Newcastle, County Down.
Following severe flooding on October 19th, Chris Hazzard MP and Cllr Willie Clarke called on the Forestry Service to end the “neglect” and “lack of maintenance” of drainage infrastructure within Donard Forest, which they argue significantly contributed to the devastating impact on homes and businesses in the Tullybrannigan area of Newcastle.
The Sinn Féin representatives have written to Environment Minister Andrew Muir demanding an immediate investigation and plan of action.
Cllr. Willie Clarke said: “There has been clear neglect regarding the infrastructure in Donard Forest. I visited the site on the day of the floods and saw for myself that the infrastructure was not fit for purpose.”
“People in Newcastle are worrying every time it rains, they shouldn’t have to live like that.”
The letter to Minister Muir seeks clarity on two key points:
• What immediate investigations have been undertaken by the Department and the Forestry Service regarding the failure of the drainage infrastructure?
• What measures will be implemented to improve drainage capacity and mitigate the increasing risk of future flooding incidents in Newcastle?
The South Down MP also added: added: “It’s not good enough to leave deep pools of water lying stagnant on the side of the path in Donard Forest.”
“The Forestry Service needs to get real when it comes to the maintenance schedule.
“We need proper infrastructure that is maintained to safeguard our residents, homes, and local businesses without delay.”
