Concern over drainage

Concern over drainage

9 July 2025

A PERSISTENT drainage problem at the Tullybrannigan Road in Newcastle has prompted an appeal for the Department for Infrastructure to address the issue.

The appeal has been made by South Down MLA Colin McGrath and Mournes councillor Laura Devlin.

Local people have reported that recent resurfacing work is already being undermined by water flowing down from the surrounding area due to inadequate or blocked drainage. 

Mr McGrath said the Tullybrannigan Road serves a busy and growing residential area and it’s “totally unacceptable”  that resurfacing work is being washed away because the underlying drainage problems weren’t properly addressed. 

“It is a waste of public money and deeply frustrating for local residents who rightly expect safe and well-maintained roads,” he said.

Cllr Devlin said residents are not only about the condition of the road, but the long-term impact on their access, safety and property. 

“We need to see a joined-up approach that includes proper drainage assessments and works to ensure any resurfacing is durable,” she added.