Gullies need cleaning more often - Barton

Road gullies should be kept clear over the coming months to reduce the risk of flooding, that's the message from Ulster Unionist assembly-woman Rosemary Barton.

The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA says autumnal leaves can easily be washed down storm drains and into gullies.

Mrs. Barton now wants to see the gullies cleaned more often.

“This debris can then block or reduce the conveyance of water into the drains causing an increase in the risk of local flooding,” she explains.

 “Gullies in urban and rural areas are cleaned on a programmed basis by the Department, generally twice per year in urban situations and once per year in rural areas. Emergency situations such as a major blockage are also dealt with as they occur,” she says.

And she adds: “I will continue to put pressure on the Department to carry out all necessary cleaning works to ensure the safety of motorists. I would also encourage members of the public to report any road drainage fault to their local Department for Infrastructure depot.”