Copeland Angered at Floods in East Belfast
UUP East Belfast representative Michael Copeland today said that some residents in East Belfast who have lived in constant fear of repeated flooding have had their fears vindicated.
The problem itself stems from undercapacity in the drains from new developments combined with today’s heavy rainfall. The existing drainage system cannot cope.
In a statement Mr Copeland said:
“There is insufficient capacity in the existing drains and sewerage system, and the situation is exacerbated by the growth of houses of multiple occupancy and new apartments that are mushrooming in the area.
I have had a number of meetings with Roads Service representatives and am seeking to arrange a joint meeting between the Roads and Water services to see whether the situation can be resolved. At present we have the ridiculous situation where the Water service say it’s not their problem as it is surface water and the Roads service maintaining it isn’t their problem because the problem stems from drains.
Meanwhile many residents are living in constant fear of flooding and no solution has been forthcoming. This is clearly unacceptable and I will be pushing both services for action and a solution to be found.”