An incident of vandalism at a wastewater treatment works in Carrickfergus could have led to a pollution incident or someone getting seriously hurt, NI Water has warned.

The recent break-in at the works, which treats wastewater flows from properties in the Carrickfergus area, is the third in a series of vandalism spats and involved damage to the perimeter fence and the theft of diesel.

John Bell, Wastewater Area Manager at NI Water, explained: "Staff reported a breach in the perimeter fence in the area and it is believed that a quantity of diesel was stolen.

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"This incident has resulted in approximately £500 worth of damage not to mention the cost to replace the diesel. It is frustrating to be spending funding on replacing equipment and improving site security as a result of vandalism, rather than on investment and improvement programmes.

"However, what worries us more is the potential for a pollution incident to occur or for someone to get seriously injured while attempting to enter the Works or while tampering with the equipment. The deep sludge tanks are also a major hazard, as it would be very difficult for anyone falling into the tanks to get out. Unfortunately, it would be unlikely that the emergency services would be able to rescue anyone who has fallen into one of these tanks."

NI Water is appealing to the public in the area to be vigilant and if they have any information or see anything suspicious to contact the PSNI on 0845 600 8000.

(CD/MH)