"I think this is a death knell in Downpatrick”, says local business owner after major flooding
It follows consecutive nights of heavy rain in Northern Ireland
Business owners in Downpatrick have been telling us of their heartbreak after seeing their livelihoods destroyed in the run up to Christmas.
The County Down town has fallen victim to major flooding after consecutive nights of heavy rain, but officials say major work to pump water away can't start until river levels are low enough.
Bartley Murphy, who owns a bar and restaurant that has been badly impacted said, “Downpatrick’s completely devastated. Every single shop along here is shut; destroyed. There’s nothing we can do. Only very few of them are insured. It’s just going to be very very hard to bounce back from this. I think this is a death knell in Downpatrick”.
In a statement on Thursday evening the Department for Infrastructure said that along with Newry Mourne and Down Council, it met with local businesses and elected representatives in Downpatrick to advise them on the problems associated with the removal of floodwater in Market Street and the potential solution.
“We have been working with Council and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service to devise a plan for pumping water over long distances, using high-volume pumps.”
“The operation is set to commence once river water levels are low enough. We couldn’t do this today (Thurs) because it would have resulted in water flowing back to Market Street due to high river levels at present.”
“Whilst there have been some indications of floodwaters increasing slightly in Downpatrick, water levels in the Quoile River have peaked and have begun to fall from early morning.”
“The precise timing of the operation cannot be provided due to the unique nature of the task and the dependence on falling river levels.”
“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to manage the situation.”
Meanwhile, the chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Cllr Valerie Harte said on Thursday evening that an operation is underway in Newry and Newcastle as flood waters recede in the area, while an emergency response is ongoing in Downpatrick.
“I am aware that the impact of the floods has been devastating for some of our residents and businesses,”, she said.
“We would like to thank everyone who has assisted so far from across local government and the many community and voluntary representatives.”
The local rep also said “Recovery advice for businesses and residents will continue to be posted on our social media channels and can be found online: newrymournedown.org/flooding”
“It is advised to only start the clear up of your property and wear protective clothing when it’s safe to return after water has subsided. An electrician should check electrical appliances and a Gas Safe-registered engineer should check gas supply. “
She said, “Please make sure it is safe to return to your home or business after flooding and please continue to avoid flood defences, flooded areas and watercourses which may still be unsafe. Please also continue to heed road closures due to flooding." Detailed advice can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/after-flood-clearing