A public consultation has been launched regarding a strategic drainage infrastructure plan for County L'Derry.

The draft 'Living With Water in Derry / Londonderry Plan' sets out proposals for a strategic long-term approach to drainage and wastewater management in the city and surrounding area.

It proposes a collaborative multi-agency approach by encouraging partners to work together to develop the right solutions in the right places promoting a combination of traditional hard engineered measures alongside natural solutions such as using open green spaces to naturally absorb and store surface water.

The consultation was opened by Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd, who said: "Infrastructure unlocks our opportunities for growth and this draft plan sets out how we can seek to achieve a resilient Derry which is better protected and prepared for the future.

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"I want to thank our Living With Water partners and stakeholders who have been working with officials in my department to develop this draft plan. 

"Development of the draft Living With Water in Derry Plan demonstrates our commitment to pursuing more sustainable drainage and wastewater solutions to help protect against flooding, provide a cleaner and greener environment and enable economic development in the Derry area.

"We all 'live with water' so it is in our interests to identify and deliver the best solutions for our homes, businesses and communities. I encourage everyone to have their say on this draft Plan."

Karen Philips, Director of Environment and Regeneration from Derry City & Strabane District Council, said: "I very much welcome the publication of this draft plan which outlines a much-needed, long-term integrated approach to tackling drainage and wastewater management issues.

"Derry City and Strabane District Council looks forward to working with partners, in particular the Department for Infrastructure and Northern Ireland Water, to support the development and delivery of projects that seek to address the current constraints on drainage and infrastructure throughout the City and District, in order to support the aims of Derry City and Strabane District's Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan (2017 - 2032)."

The consultation process is now open today and will run until April 7. It is available here.