NI Water has launched a substantial infrastructure project in Bellaghy aimed at modernising the local wastewater network.

The extensive programme involves the installation of larger diameter sewers designed to bolster the capacity of the combined network, significantly lowering the risk of out-of-sewer flooding in the village.

In addition to the pipeline upgrades, the project includes essential improvements at the Bellaghy Wastewater Treatment Works. This includes the creation of new stormwater storage facilities at the plant, a move intended to safeguard the environmental health of nearby waterways during periods of heavy rain.

Martin Armstrong, NI Water Senior Project Manager, commented on the current progress: "Our appointed contractor, Murphy Dawson WAM, has recently commenced pipelaying in private lands adjacent to Bellaghy Wastewater Treatment Works, located off the Deerpark Road. The new pipe will be able to transport more wastewater flow to the treatment works and will therefore help to reduce the risk of out-of-sewer flooding.

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"The majority of the pipelaying is within private lands and Dawson WAM are liaising with landowners as the work progresses. An archaeologist is overseeing the stripping of all topsoil in relation to this work, to ensure any significant finds are recorded, preserved or removed and stored in line with the appropriate protocols."

The project, which is scheduled for completion in early 2027, is part of a broader strategy to ensure the resilience of Northern Ireland's infrastructure against the challenges of climate change and increased precipitation. While this phase focuses on the network and storage, NI Water noted that future modernisations of the treatment works itself will be required to facilitate further development in the area, contingent on future funding and approvals.

Mr Armstrong added: "NI Water will provide updates and liaise with residents and businesses should any traffic management measures be required as part of this project. When complete in early 2027, the full programme of work will improve the long-term resilience of the local wastewater network and provide enhanced environmental protection in the face of climate change and heavier rainfall.

"NI Water and our project partners, Murphy Dawson WAM and Tetra Tech RPS, would like to thank local landowners and residents for their patience and cooperation as we deliver these important network upgrades. Every effort will be made to complete each section of work as quickly as possible."