A Derry businessman has said he fears an embankment at the rear of his premises is in danger of collapsing despite assurances that the land poses no threat to nearby homes.
The embankment is situated at the rear of Westend Terrace, which residents of the street claim has been steadily encroaching on their homes in recent years.
Of particular concern are a number of trees situated on the land, which householders have called to be immediately removed to lessen the risk of a landslide similar to that which caused up to £250,000 of damage to the Marlborough Street area in December 2011.
However, frustration is growing among those living in the street due to the lack of action being taken to address their concerns, as the ownership of the land is currently unknown.
In November of last year, DRD Roads Service carried out a technical assessment of a retaining wall at Beechmount Avenue, which it assessed as ‘stable’, adding that it required only some minor work to ensure its long term viability.
A spokesperson for the DRD Roads Service added that while ownership of the embankment is unknown, there are no ‘obvious signs to suggest that the stability of the embankment may be compromised at this time.’
“Roads Service is currently undertaking investigations with a view to determine ownership,” the spokesperson added.
Speaking to the Derry News at the weekend, Paul McGilloway, whose business Framed to Perfection is situated on Westend Terrace, said the recent inspection has done little to allay fears over a possible landslide.
“That embankment is not safe,” he said, “and it’s only a matter of time before it comes down.”
“If you were to look at the back lane, you can see how the space between the embankment and the backyard steadily narrows down, and that’s been happening steadily over the years.”
He added: “If someone at least came and took the trees away that would do some good, but until that happens, we’re living in fear of another landslide.”
Sinn Fein councillor for the area Colly Kelly (pictured speaking to Mr McGilloway) said: “People who live and own businesses on Westend Terrace are very fearful that we could have a similar situation to what we had in Marlborough Terrace back in December 2011 when there was a major landslide at the back of homes .
The weather had been particularly bad the past few weeks with a lot of rain and surface water, and the banking is of major concern as there are several large trees are within feet of local homes.”
He added: “It’s crucial that there is an inspection of this site and issues around ownership of land resolved so all the various agencies that have expertise in these matters can come up with a resolution.”
A spokesperson for Derry City Council said they are aware of the residents’ concerns.
“Council is working with the relevant agencies to ensure any potential issues are investigated,” the spokesperson said.
“Council officers have visited the site and it is the council’s understanding that the retaining wall providing support to the road at Beechwood Avenue is the responsibility of DRD Road Service. 
“Council Officers will visit the site again in order to offer advice and assistance to residents.”

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