South Belfast traffic disruption coming next week as NI Water excavate ground

There will be some traffic disruption on a major South Belfast road next week as Northern Ireland Water investigate what lies beneath it.

The excavation works will allow the firm to draw up detailed plans of pipes and sewers ahead of a flood alleviation project planned for 2020.

In order for the works to take place safely, one lane of the Ravenhill Road will be closed from 8pm-6am from Monday, October 28.

A spokesperson for NI Water said: “NI Water fully appreciate that work of this nature can be disruptive and we will take every measure possible to keep all disruption to a minimum.

“When complete this project will increase the capacity of the sewerage system in the area, significantly reducing the likelihood of out-of-sewer flooding and environmental pollution.”

The works, which are expected to last five nights, are being carried out by Geda Construction.

NI Water’s spokesperson added: “NI Water along with our appointed contractor Geda Construction will be undertaking further ground investigation works in the Ravenhill Road area.

“This will include two trial excavations on the Ravenhill Road, construction activities at our site compound on London Road and vehicular movements between these locations.

“This work is due to commence on 28th October 2019, and we anticipate will last approximately five nights.

“Traffic management will be in place and it will be necessary to have a temporary lane closure on the Ravenhill Road. During this time, two-way traffic will be maintained with the use of temporary traffic signals.

“Due to the nature and location of these works on this busy arterial route and to reduce disruption, the works will be undertaken during evening/night time hours,” they added.

“Working hours will generally be 8pm-6am, with all traffic management removed from the road by 6am daily.

“Vehicular access for residents will be maintained as far as possible but may be subject to slight delays, and pedestrian access will be available at all times. Parking restrictions will be in place around the working area.

“NI Water and our contractor Geda Construction would like to thank the public for their patience and co-operation as we undertake these essential works,” they continued.

“This project, which is programmed to commence in early 2020, is being undertaken to alleviate ongoing internal and external flooding issues within the Ravenhill Avenue area and will involve the upgrading of existing sewers on Ravenhill Avenue and other residential streets in the area.”

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