NI Water to sell Sullatober Ponds

Greenisland Councillor Stewart Dickson stated: “People in North Down were shocked to hear that NI Water plan to sell reservoirs on the open market, with many calling upon them to halt their sale plans

“I find it scandalous that NI Water are prepared to contemplate selling these reservoirs. Will Woodburn be put up for sale next, whilst many homes across Northern Ireland were recently without water? The water crisis must have a significant bearing on the mind of NI Water and convince the organisation that sell-offs are the last thing people need.

“Selling reservoirs such as Woodburn could also endanger a vast array of wildlife which lives in the reservoirs whilst also reducing the opportunity for recreational activities such as angling and countryside walks. I would urge NI Water to withdraw their sale plans.”

Responding to the claims, a spokesperson for NI Water stressed that it has no intention of selling Woodburn Reservoir - however, two other dams in the area will be going on the market.

“The only reservoirs in the general East Antrim area which are being considered for sale are the Sullotober Ponds outside Carrick and the Ballyboley Impounding Reservoir in the Larne area,” the spokesperson said. “These are currently not scheduled for disposal before 2016/17.”

Regarding the controversial sale of the North Down reservoirs, the company was keen to emphasise the normality of the practice. “NI Water wishes to dispel the impression that there is anything unusual with the disposal of NI Water land and assets, the details of which are continually updated and published in our Annual Land Disposal Register,” the spokesperson continued.

“It is not only a Regulatory requirement, but good business practice to identify surplus land and property assets, particularly those that attract operational running costs. Our priority is ensuring value for money is achieved while providing the safe and efficient delivery of water and wastewater services to the people of Northern Ireland.”