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Newry Councillor Killian Feehan has welcomed Council proposals to install automated water level monitoring at key sites across the Newry Canal catchment, describing the move as “an important measure to protect our communities from future flooding.”
The agenda item was discussed behind closed doors and passed at yesterday's 16 September, Sustainability & Environment Committee meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. Coming out of closed session S&E Chair Councillor Oonagh Magennis said "It was agreed to approve the recommendations of the business case as stated in appendix one of the officers report"
The new system will see monitoring equipment installed at Camlough Lake, Bessbrook Pond, Victoria Lock, and Donaghguy, providing real-time data on water levels. This will enable Council staff to respond quickly to severe weather events and help prevent a repeat of the devastating floods that hit Newry and Downpatrick in late 2023.
The project has been developed in consultation with the Department for Infrastructure Rivers Agency, which already operates over 130 hydrometric stations across Northern Ireland.
Councillor Feehan said: “The floods of October and November 2023 caused real devastation to homes, businesses and families across our District. We cannot allow our communities to go through that again. That’s why I strongly welcome this investment in modern monitoring systems which will give us the ability to track water levels in real time and respond before a crisis develops.
“This is about putting early warning systems in place that allow us to take action quickly, safeguard homes and protect businesses. It also shows that Council is listening to residents who have been calling for better flood prevention measures. The SDLP will continue to push for further investment in flood resilience across the district, but this is an important and very welcome step forward.”
