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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

Calls for resolve of 'totally unacceptable' flooding issue in West Belfast

A West Belfast councillor is calling for a solution to be found to solve an "historic" flooding issue in the area.

On Tuesday morning, serious flash flooding took over the front of the shops in Turf Lodge. Cars were unable to drive in the area and access to businesses was made difficult.

Alongside footage of severe flooding at the front of the shops, including a pharmacist, Sinn Féin councillor Micheal Donnelly said: "Just away yet again from serious flash flooding at the shops in Turf Lodge.

Read more: West Belfast primary school car park plan delayed for site check

"Totally unacceptable that local businesses, customers and residents have to endure this anytime there’s a downpour.

"There’s a potential risk of damage to the shops with water getting in, business is being affected and locals are being put at risk of harm.

"I’ve contacted the Flood Agency who are chasing this up currently.

"This is a historical issue that needs addressed now."

Several hours after councillor's Donnelly's post on social media, he shared an update that the Department for Infrastructure had attended the site.

He added: "Thanks to DFI for responding to the serious amount of access rain water gathered at the Turf Lodge shops today.

"A large amount of cement, bitmac tarmac and other large objects were removed from the gullies which were causing the blockage.

"Be interesting to see how the drains cope now with all those items removed. Hopefully they can operate effectively now."

A Departmental spokesperson told Belfast Live: “DFI staff attended the site today to investigate and cleared a blockage found in the roadside drainage. A follow up meeting with local elected representatives to discuss this issue has been arranged.”

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