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MLA Andy McMurray has expressed his concern that there doesn't seem to be any interim measures for flood avoidance following extensive flooding in Newry and Downpatrick in October/ November 2023.
The South Down public representative was speaking after recent Flood Review open evenings in Newry and Downpatrick.
Mr McMurray said "After attending the recent open evening being held into the flooding as experienced in both Downpatrick and Newry, many were left feeling underwhelmed and disappointed at the progress so far.
"I appreciate that the review must take into consideration all elements which contributed to the floods, however many locals are frustrated that this is all that has been documented so far. People understand that while it was unprecedented rainfall and river levels, what they want to see is proposals moving forward which will prevent flooding being repeated before we move into autumn and winter. Having an estimated date of 2025 for the final report to be published will not assuage the concerns of residents and business owners fears."
The MLA believes there should be a clear plan. "If similar rainfall and river levels approach those seen in the prelude to last years floods, then relevant agencies should have a clear plan by which to enact in order to prevent a flooding repeat.
"Interim arrangements for vulnerable locations impacted by the flooding where capital investment has been identified but yet to take place."
He believes this needs to be enacted as soon as possible and Mr McMurray said he will be communicating with the Department of Infrastructure to ask that it is expediated.
