Call to assess sea wall after latest storms

Call to assess sea wall after latest storms

20 January 2016

TRANSPORT NI officials have been asked to carry out an assessment of the sea wall at Fisherman’s Row in Killough after it took a battering during recent storms when a section of road collapsed into the sea.

Councillor Gareth Sharvin, who has asked for the assessment, said a large section of the busy road in the village is also currently unsafe to drive along. 

He said it is the second time in two years that part of the road has collapsed.

“A section of roadway previously washed into the sea and residents are rightly concerned about the condition of this particular road,” he continued. “Parts of the road have been closed in the past which has restricted access to a number of homes.”

Councillor Sharvin confirmed he has raised his concerns and those of Killough residents with Stormont Regional Development Minister Michelle McIlveen.

“I have asked Miss McIlveen’s department to carry out a full review on the stability of the sea wall at Fisherman’s Row and the impact recent weather has had both on it and the adjoining road,” he continued. 

“It is vitally important for the safety of road users and local residents that such inspections are carried out to ensure this road is fit for purpose.”

Councillor Sharvin argued it is also essential that the forthcoming inspection of the sea wall is not a “one off” and that regular checks are made. He added: “Continuous monitoring needs to be carried out to address any defects in the sea wall.”