Raw sewage overflow causes concerns for residents in Derrybeg
Images of “raw sewage” overflowing in Newry has exposed a public health risk flowing in the open streets.
The “revolting” waste spewing in the Derrybeg area on September 14 has caused concerns in the community with suggestions of new housing putting pressure on the water system.
However, Northern Ireland Water (NIW) has now identified a sewer blockage caused by “inappropriate items” being flushed down toilets.
Local people on a community social media have reacted, with one resident saying: “That’ll be the water system not being able to handle the pressure of new houses being built.”
Another added: ”Definitely it is a severe health hazard that nobody wants to address. This has been going on for two years. Building new houses without the adequate infrastructure and this is the result.”
NIW has now cleared out the blockage, though an elected member for the city has called for a long term solution to the “serious public health risk”.
Newry Sinn Fein councillor Aidan Mathers said: “I am deeply concerned by the flooding experienced in the Derrybeg area last night, which resulted in raw sewage, wastewater and toilet paper being deposited onto residents’ properties.
“As soon as I became aware of this revolting flooding, I contacted NI Water to request immediate action.
“Recent heavy rainfall is no excuse for sewage flowing onto roads and people’s property. Following my intervention, NI Water conducted a clean-up operation and will survey the sewers to identify the cause and required preventative work.”
Councillor Mathers added: “This was an utterly unacceptable situation that posed serious risks to public health, causes significant distress to affected households and leaves residents facing the difficult task of cleaning and restoring their homes and gardens.
“Derrybeg residents deserve to live without the prospect of this ever happening again. I welcome the prompt response of NI Water to clear the area and investigate the cause of the flooding.”
The Local Democracy Reporting Service contacted all agencies for clarity on the matter.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council said:” Responsibility for the maintenance of roads infrastructure, including gullies, drains and flood alleviation measures, lies with the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). The council does not have a statutory role in this area.”
However, DfI referred the matter to NIW.
A spokesperson for NIW said: “NI Water received a report on Monday evening of a manhole overflowing in Second Avenue, Newry.
“Our contractor attended the site and identified a sewer blockage caused by inappropriate items entering the wastewater system. The blockage was cleared and a full clean-up of the affected area was completed.”
“NI Water would remind customers that only the three Ps: Pee, Poo and Paper, should be flushed down the toilet.
“Items such as wet wipes, cotton buds, sanitary products and fats, oils and grease can cause blockages in the sewer network. Further information and advice can be found on niwater.com/flush.”