City centre road closure as sewer on verge of collapse

NI Water will start its work in the Diamond area on Monday, August 1.

It’s understood that extensive investigation works carried out during June have identified that the sewer around the Diamond is in very poor condition and nearing collapse in some places.

As a result, NI Water says it is necessary to re-lay this section of sewer as soon as possible. All of these works, it says, are programmed to be completed prior to the commencement of public realm work within the Walled City later this year.

A spokesperson for NI Water said: “Detailed traffic management arrangements have been discussed with TransportNI. Due to the location of these works and, in order to minimise disruption to business, road users and the public, the majority of this work will be programmed during evening/night time hours.

“In order to carry out the work safely, it will be necessary to have a temporary road closure in place during the night time works and a diversion route will be signposted during this time. Where the road closure is in place, this will be fully removed everyday between 7am and 7pm. Vehicular access will be maintained for residents where possible and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

“There will also be a section of work at the Diamond which will be carried out during day time hours. Full vehicular access will be available around the Diamond during normal business hours during this section work.”

As far as possible, says NI Water, the work will be planned to avoid clashing with major events in the city.

“NI Water and our contractor will continue to liaise with the City Centre Initiative to coordinate the work at different locations. We will also liaise with businesses within the area to facilitate access for deliveries etc.,” said NI Water.

Customer queries regarding the project should be directed to Waterline on 03457 440088, quoting “ Quinn Automatic Ltd Inner Walls Public Realm Sewers, L’Derry”.