To ask the Minister for Regional Development why it will take four months for water mains replacement work on North Road, Carrickfergus, to be completed.

The proposed water mains replacement scheme at North Road, Carrickfergus is part of Northern Ireland Water’s £10.9 million package of work across Belfast and Carrickfergus to upgrade the water supply infrastructure.

NI Water is replacing an aging 12” cast iron trunk water main which was installed in 1950. This existing cast iron main is reaching the end of its usable life and, if not replaced, may result in future water quality issues and unplanned interruptions to supply.

This is a substantial scheme, costing £302k, and involves the laying of 1km of new water mains from the junction of Prince Andrew Way to the Marshallstown Road. The current proposed start date is May 2016, with the scheme being completed during the summer months when traffic levels are reduced due to the local schools being closed.

Although it has been estimated that the scheme will take a maximum duration of four months, this is dependent on agreed traffic management and working restrictions to be implemented during the scheme. NI Water is currently liaising with TransportNI regarding the traffic management proposals and, when confirmed, NI Water will be able to provide a more accurate timescale for the scheme.

This major water mains investment for Carrickfergus is good news for the local area, as the upgraded water mains will improve the quality, reliability and security of the local water supply, while also reducing leakage and improving pressure in the area.