Agency confirms probe into floods

Agency confirms probe into floods

13 January 2016

THE Rivers Agency has confirmed it is carrying out an investigation in the wake of the recent flooding in Annsborough.

But a spokeswoman for the organisation said the Agency only became aware of the issue on Wednesday of last week, despite three separate flooding incidents in the village spanning just over one week.

Concerned residents hope Agency officials will examine claims that the water level in Castlewellan Lake had been reduced in the wake of repeated downpours, with thousands of gallons of water directed to so-called holding ponds near Mill Hill. 

There have been suggestions locally that water from the holding pond leaked and made its way down Mill Hill during last week’s heavy rain, overwhelming the existing storm drainage system.

A Rivers Agency spokeswoman added: “We are currently carrying out an investigation to determine the cause and extent of the flooding in this area and we have arranged a site meeting with residents, TransportNI, Northern Ireland Water and political representatives today.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Regional Development has confirmed it was aware of the Annsborough flooding and that officials from TransportNI have visited the area.

A spokesman said: “Investigations are ongoing to identify the cause of this flooding. A meeting is planned between Sean Rogers MLA, residents and officials from TransportNI and Rivers Agency to try and resolve the matter.”