A public consultation has been launched on developer contributions for wastewater infrastructure in Northern Ireland.

The consultation, announced by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins, seeks views on whether and, if so, the Department should introduce developer contributions to help fund necessary improvements to the country's wastewater infrastructure.

It proposes two possible options:

• Voluntary Developer Contributions for Wastewater Infrastructure - developers could voluntarily pay to offset the costs of upgrading or replacing the wastewater infrastructure preventing new connections in the specific areas where they are unable to build.

• Compulsory Developer Wastewater Contribution Levy - introduction of a compulsory wastewater levy, requiring a financial contribution from developers which would be used on prioritised needs basis across the whole of the North, not just the areas where they directly benefit.

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Discussing wastewater infrastructure, Minister Liz Kimmins said: "Improving our sewerage systems will be a significant undertaking, costing billions and spanning multiple decades.

"The introduction of developer contributions would not alone present the funding needed to implement the improvements that are needed but is another step forward on the journey towards having the infrastructure we all need.

"Launching this consultation is one part of a three-pronged approach - I am bringing forward new legislation in relation to sustainable drainage systems which can make water storage more efficient and am considering other options which prioritise housing need; and I continue to work with Executive colleagues to try and increase wastewater investment."

The launch of the consultation follows discussions between the Construction Employers' Federation (CEF), Northland Developments and Minister Kimmins.

CEF member Northland Developments were pleased to have a very constructive solutions-focused meeting with Minister Kimmins at which the impacts of underinvestment in water and wastewater infrastructure were related to sites where there is housing demand, but which cannot currently be serviced. 

The Minister heard and acknowledged the impact this is having on local employment, delivery of housing and economic development and has offered to keep engaging in the development of solutions and pragmatic steps to ease the impact pending sustainable funding becoming available.

The public consultation on developer contributions will close on June 27 and can be accessed here.