Newcastle residents given sandbag flood prevention

Newcastle residents given sandbag flood prevention

5 October 2016

RESIDENTS at the Burrendale estate in Newcastle, whose homes have been flooded in recent years, have been given access to sand bags to help protect their properties.

The sand bags are located in a container which has been provided at the estate and can be accessed by the Murlough Community Association in the event of an emergency.

The provision of the container has been welcomed by South Down MLA Colin McGrath and councillor Laura Devlin who say it will ensure residents can take immediate action if water levels start to rise.

Mr McGrath said a number of residents who live at the Burrendale Park Road have been badly affected by flooding over recent years and is pleased sand bags are now close at hand should they be required.

“The flooding incidents experienced by some residents were horrendous and I wish to thank my party colleague Sean Rogers who was involved in instigating action on the ground to have this new container provided,” he said.

Mr McGrath said while he appreciates the sand bag container is a “sticking plaster solution,” he explained what is required in the long term is an upgrade of the storm water infrastructure in this part of Newcastle.

Councillor Devlin described recent flooding at the Burrendale estate and along parts of the Dundrum Road in the resort as “devastating.” She explained that along with Mr Rogers, they met with officials from Northern Ireland Water, the Rivers Agency and Housing Executive and members of the Murlough Community Association which led to the provision of the sand bag container.

“I appreciate the container is significant in size which was why I asked the Housing Executive to consult with all residents whose properties face on to the green area. I am pleased no objections were raised,” she continued.

Councillor Devlin added: “This container will really be a lifeline for those living in fear of heavy rain combined with a high tide. I want to thank the Murlough Community Association Committee for its patience and appeal to Dundrum Road residents who have been affected by flooding incidents in the past and would be keen for a similar container in their area to contact Mr McGrath at his new office at Main Street.”