To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline arrangements in place to ensure the regular removal of detritus near the Blue Bridges, Newcastle, in order to reduce flooding in the area.

A partial blockage to a bridge on the Bryansford Road, known locally as the Blue Bridges, occurred as a result of the high water levels in the Shimna River carrying debris down the watercourse on 25 August 2020. This blockage is thought to have been a contributory factor to the flooding that occurred.

My Department inspects the Shimna River at the Bryansford Road annually and if works are identified these will be added to a programme for maintenance. In addition my Department also responds to any reports made by the public or elected representatives of debris building up in this watercourse.

My Department is mindful of the need to provide and maintain its infrastructure. However, it is not always possible to ensure that flooding can be avoided. During severe weather events the volume of rainfall can exceed the design capacity of drainage infrastructure and blockages similar to what occurred at the Bryansford Road, despite the vigilance of my operational teams, can occur.