NI Water has announced a programme of upgrade works for Ballygarvey Wastewater Pumping Station (WwPS) in Ballymena.

The works are planned to begin on Monday 25th September and will see a complete overhaul of the existing pumping station as well as the installation of a new larger diameter pumping main along a section of Ballygarvey Road.

The significant NI Water investment – which should complete in early December - will strengthen the wastewater network, cater for development and provide better environmental protection in the area.

Speaking about the work and the associated traffic management arrangements, Paul Hamilton, NI Water Project Manager said: "The upgrade to the pumping station will take place within the existing Ballygarvey WwPS site located off the Ballygarvey Road. As part of the extensive improvements, the existing pump house building will be demolished and a kiosk will be installed in its place. The pumping station will remain operational during the upgrade work.

"To provide a more robust wastewater network and meet future demand, a new larger diameter pipeline will also be installed. This will extend from the pumping station and will affect the section of Ballygarvey Road between No. 92 and No. 36 Ballygarvey Road.

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"Due to the narrow road and the machinery required, the Ballygarvey Road will need to be closed to through traffic between Cushendall Road and Parade Road from Monday 2nd October until Friday 8th December to facilitate this work.

"Pipelaying is planned to get underway adjacent to No. 92 and progress towards No. 36 Ballygarvey Road. Access will be provided to any properties located within the works area; however, to reduce the volume of traffic travelling through a working area, NI Water and our appointed contractor GRAHAM would kindly ask all other residents and commuters to follow the approved diversion route along Knockan Road, Raceview Road, Frys Road and Cushendall Road.

"A letter drop has been undertaken in the area and signage will be in place to direct road users. Access will be provided for emergency services and liaison with stakeholders in the area will be maintained as work progresses.

"NI Water would take this opportunity to advise residents that construction traffic will be travelling along the Ballygarvey Road and the wider Ballymena area during this work. We would also highlight that construction sites are dangerous areas for unauthorised persons, especially children and we would appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that children do not play in or around any site or machinery. Working areas will have warning signs in place to protect the public from any hazards. The public are advised to stay away from these working areas for their own safety.

"NI Water and our project team from RPS and GRAHAM thank the local community and wider public for their patience and cooperation as we carry out this essential upgrade. The team will strive to minimise the impact of these works and deliver these improvements in a safe, efficient and timely way."