Vandalism at Drumaness Poses a Serious Risk

06 September 2010 8:14

NI Water has raised serious concerns about recent vandalism at Drumaness Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW).

The Works, which manages all the wastewater flows for Drumaness and the surrounding area, has been broken into several times in recent weeks.

Vital construction equipment such as diggers and plant were damaged during the break-in and essential electrical cables were disconnected and stolen from the Works. It is estimated the repairs and extra security now required will cost thousands of pounds.

NI Water representative, Kieran Grant, who has been dealing with the break-ins, explained:

“NI Water would like to stress that this is a serious problem that poses very dangerous health and safety risks, not only to those carrying out the break-ins, but also to all workers on the site, the public and the environment.

“The damage caused by the vandals may also result in delays to the programme of Works for the upgrade of Drumaness WwTW and possibly serious pollution incidents, and we would appeal to those involved to think about their behaviour and stop immediately.”

The cost of repairing the damage is also a factor. This work creates a needless drain on extremely limited resources that could be better used to improve services to the local community.

NI Water needs the help and support of the whole community to protect these vital resources and is calling on those engaging in these acts to cease immediately.

To report an incident at any NI Water site, please phone Waterline on 08457 440088.