'Living With Water in Derry' launched by Infrastructure Minister

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins was in Derry today to launch 'Living With Water in Derry: An Integrated Plan for Drainage and Wastewater Management in Derry'.

This followed public consultation on the draft Plan, the aims of which are to provide a long-term strategy for drainage and wastewater management that will help provide protection from flooding, deliver a cleaner and greener environment and support economic growth for the city and surrounding area.

Minister Kimmins said: “We all “live with water” so it is in our interests to identify and deliver the best solutions for our homes, businesses and communities.

"The Living With Water in Derry Plan provides a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy for managing drainage and wastewater across Derry City and its surrounding areas.

"It aims to ensure the city’s drainage infrastructure is resilient, sustainable and able to support future growth through a coordinated approach that combines essential engineered upgrades with natural solutions, such as using green spaces to help slow and store surface water.

“I want to thank our Living With Water partners and stakeholders who have been working with officials in my department to develop this plan and to everyone who took part in the consultation, said Minister Kimmins.

Speaking about the launch of the Plan, Derry City and Strabane Mayor, Ruairí McHugh, said "This is an important step forward in addressing the infrastructure challenges that are impacting on the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

"I look forward to working collaboratively with DfI and other Living With Water partners, to deliver solutions that not only meet current needs but also support future growth and sustainability for our communities.

"These improvements will play a crucial role in supporting the ambitions of the Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan (2017–2032), ensuring a thriving, prosperous and sustainable City and District for all."

Implementation of the catchment-based opportunities in the Plan will include investment in river flood alleviation schemes, wastewater treatment works upgrades and sewerage network improvements, alongside natural drainage and flood management solutions.

The Plan highlights key opportunities and focuses on delivering the most effective solutions through collaborative efforts across the City.

Once specific schemes are agreed upon, partner organisations will be responsible for securing funding and implementing projects through their respective annual budgets, ensuring efficient and impactful delivery for the people of Derry.

The Plan is now available to view online at: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/living-water-derrylondonderry.