Update on Mersey Street, East Belfast Road Closure

27 March 2015 10:50

NI Water can confirm that a temporary road closure affecting Mersey Street in east Belfast, due to conclude in May 2015, has now been extended until the end of December 2015. This is due to unanticipated ground conditions in the area, which have resulted in significant engineering challenges, as well as additional drainage repairs.NI Water is investing over £1m to provide a new storm sewer which will cater for new housing in the area, refurbishment of existing sewers and remove rainwater runoff from the combined foul sewer. The benefits to the local community include reducing the risk of out of sewer flooding, pollution of the Connswater and a sustainable reduction in NI Water operating costs.The existing sewer was found to be in poor condition and the replacement has been added to the project to reduce costs, including on reinstatement.In order to maintain public safety, it is necessary to close the road to through traffic – we recognise that this has a significant impact on commuters, although access for residents will continue to be maintained.All road works are planned in consultation with Transport NI Traffic Branch, the PSNI and emergency services. The noise, vibration and general disruption associated with this type of construction does have a greater impact on the local residential population. In order to provide local residents some respite from the construction work, NI Water’s contractor limits work to normal working hours whilst providing adequate working time to safely undertake the construction works.NI Water has communicated to the public via variable message signage, Traffic Watch NI website, letter drops to residents impacted and public displayed telephone number and NI Water’s Waterline e-mail address. In addition, NI Water’s contractor and site supervisory staff are in constant contact with local residents regarding day-to-day issues such as pedesterain access, restricted parking, bin collection etc.NI Water is grateful to the members of the public affected for their co-operation, patience and understanding, and we will do everything we can to reduce disruption in the area.