Public Information Event: Wednesday 31st May 2017 - Upper Newtownards Road Phase 2 – Flood Alleviation Scheme

16 May 2017 16:27

NI Water is preparing to commence work on a large-scale flood alleviation project for the Upper Newtownards Road / Knock Road area of East Belfast. The work will commence in early June and we anticipate all work will be completed in Spring 2018.

 

This infrastructure project will involve the upgrade of existing and installation of new sewers on the Upper Newtownards and Knock Roads, as well as sewers within some other residential streets in the area. It is being undertaken to resolve historical internal and external ‘out of sewer’ flooding issues and when complete it will increase the capacity of the existing sewerage system in the area and reduce the risk of ‘out of sewer’ flooding and environmental pollution.

 

NI Water would like to invite the public along to hear more about this important scheme on Wednesday 31st May 2017 at Knock Methodist Centre, BT5 6JA. This is a “drop in” event and people are welcome to call in at any stage between 4-7pm to get further information on the project.

 

During the main sewer laying works, temporary lane closures will be required on the Upper Newtownards and Knock Road for safety reasons,  Two-way traffic will be maintained at all times on these arterial routes (one lane in each direction), however traffic delays should be expected. Two major crossings of the Upper Newtownards Road will be carried out using underground trenchless techniques to reduce disruption as far as possible. To facilitate these trenchless works, there will be localised road closures on some residential streets. Signage and traffic management will be in place as the work progresses. 

 

A crossing of the Kings Road is also required and all possible options are currently being investigated to minimise disruption during this section of work as far as practically possible. However, it may be necessary to close the Kings Road at its junction with the Knock Road for a short period to complete the work safely.

 

The project is being programmed to finish in advance of the implementation of the new Belfast Rapid Transport (BRT) system in September 2018.  NI Water and our contractor Dawson WAM would like to thank the public in advance for their patience and cooperation as we commence this essential improvement work.

 

Ends

All media enquiries to NI Water Press Office on 028 9035 4757 or email press.office@niwater.com