NI Water has started a site investigation programme today on sections of the wastewater network in Castlewellan and Annsborough.

The investigations, conducted by BSG Civil Engineering, will commence in the Newcastle Road area of Castlewellan. They will involve digging small trial holes at various locations with brief, localised lane closures. The investigations have been carefully planned to ensure that any work in town centre areas is completed before the start of the new school term.

Speaking about the work, NI Water Senior Project Manager, Sean Milligan said: "These important investigation works are being carried out to determine the condition of the existing sewerage network and establish how we can reduce the pressure on the network.

"The initial exploration works – which will also highlight problems in the network – will involve the digging of small trial holes in the following areas during late August and early September: Newcastle Road, Clarmont Avenue, Wood Grove & Burrenwood Road, Annsborough Park, Ballylough Road, Mill Hill, Circular Road, St. Malachys Crescent, St. Malachys Drive & Main Street.

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"Each trial hole will be excavated and reinstated within one day – however in most areas a series of 3 or 4 trial holes will be required. This may involve a short lane closure or a road closure where the road is particularly narrow. Localised traffic management will be implemented around any working area and parking restrictions and pedestrian management may also be required. Our contractor will maintain access for residents and businesses while works are ongoing.

"Normal working hours will be 09:30am to 4:30pm; however, it may be necessary on occasions for work to be undertaken outside of these hours. We would remind the public that all construction sites are dangerous areas for unauthorised persons, especially children, and we would appreciate the co-operation of the public in ensuring that children do not play in or around any site or machinery. The public are advised to stay away from working areas for their own safety.

"NI Water and our project team from McAdam and BSG take this opportunity to thank residents, businesses and the public for their patience and cooperation while we undertake this essential work. We assure you that we will strive to keep disruption to a minimum and complete the investigations in the shortest possible timeframe. We will advise of any improvement works which may be required as a result of these investigations in the future."