NI Water has held a meeting with Mid Ulster Council to inform representatives on investment needed for wastewater and water infrastructure across the region.

A disparity in funding and growth was found as Mid Ulster Council is expected to need nearly 11,000 new homes, will want to attract over eight thousand new jobs and have sustainable economic growth by 2030. The main towns of Cookstown, Dungannon and Magherafelt have been identified as a focus for population and economic growth; this is to promote sustainable development and to support the efficient use of public services, facilities and infrastructure. 

Following the presentation to Mid Ulster Council, Steve Blockwell, Head of Investment at NI Water said: "Since the presentation was given to Mid Ulster Council, I would like to welcome the New Decade, New Approach Deal and the Executive's commitment to invest urgently in wastewater infrastructure which is at or nearing capacity in many places across Northern Ireland, including Belfast. Providing safe, clean, drinking water supplied to houses and business is always the top priority for NI Water. While we have been able to maintain safe clean drinking water, the huge constraints on our capital budget has meant that Wastewater issues have largely been left unaddressed as highlighted in our PC15 Business Plan; our PC21 business planning process has identified ninety-nine areas where new housing and businesses may be unable to get connected to our sewerage system throughout the province. 

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"The funding made available in PC15 (2015 to 2021) by NI Government to date for water and wastewater infrastructure is not keeping pace with what Northern Ireland needs. 

"Significant investment is needed for wastewater and water infrastructure. NI Water knows Northern Ireland's growth ambitions, we know what needs done and we have the plan and the skills to deliver it. However, if funding continues at current levels there will be significant constraints on economic growth, damage to the environment and risk to people's health."

(CM/MH)