Dumped debris causes Laurelvale flood emergency
2 April 2010
DARD Rivers Agency is alerting residents in the Laurelvale area of Portadown of the dangers of dumping debris in or near the river after a flooding disaster was narrowly averted this week.
Blockages to the drainage system of Laurelvale Stream, caused by debris from river banks, occurred on four separate occasions during the violent storm on Tuesday 30 March.
Jim Martin, Rivers Agency’s Armagh Engineer, believes that many residents living beside watercourses may be unaware of the dangers posed by depositing items close to or in a river channel.
“Material left on a river bank can be collected by floodwater and cause blockages, potentially resulting in disaster for property owners. In January 2008, eight houses were flooded at Laurelvale because of this very reason,” said Mr Martin.
“Debris is the main problem in this type of situation. Despite our team taking preventative measures prior to the storm and repeated visits during the event on Tuesday, debris collected from the river banks became lodged, causing a build up of floodwater. On this occasion, part of the problem was actually from laurel tree cuttings,” he added.
“We’d like to thank residents who acted quickly to report the issues, enabling us to respond promptly and avert what could have been a serious flooding incident. We’d also like to convey a more serious message and appeal to the public not to dump material in or near the river.” concluded Mr Martin.
Residents are reminded that to report a flood, they can contact the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- All media enquiries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
