Odour problem continues

Odour problem continues

14 December 2011

TWO politicians have called for a solution to an ongoing odour problem at the Ardmeen Green housing estate in Downpatrick.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie and councillor Colin McGrath said residents have had to put up with the noxious smell for long enough.

They met recently with Northern Ireland Water officials to discuss residents’ concerns and call for a

resolution to the odour problem.

The smell has been linked to a pipe which pumps raw sewage from the nearby Ballyalton area to a sewage treatment plant at the Belfast Road.

Miss Ritchie said she and councillor McGrath gave residents an undertaking they would pursue NI Water in relation to providing a long-term solution to the malodour problem.

She continued: “It is simply not good enough for NI Water to react to the problem; they must ensure the issue

is resolved and the problem of malodour does not reoccur.”

The MP said following talks with NI Water, its officials said actions have now been taken to address the issue. Miss Ritchie said these include fitting additional seals to manhole covers.

“Work is also continuing with an upgrade programme on the overall sewage infrastructure in the area,” she said.

The MP added: “Councillor McGrath and myself will continue to pursue this matter until a satisfactory conclusion is reached for the residents. I will continue with representations to NI Water and hold further meetings to monitor progress.”