Swann Secures Action on Mallusk Road and A8 Flooding Problems

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has received confirmation from the Department for Infrastructure Roads Service that work is underway and further action planned to tackle persistent flooding on the Mallusk Road, McKinney Road area and the A8.

Following Mr Swann’s intervention, DfI Roads confirmed that an external contractor has recently cleared gullies and drainage lines between Hightown Road and Scullions Road on the Mallusk Road. Subject to funding, additional cleaning between Scullions Road and Hydepark Road is expected to take place in January.

The Department also acknowledged that years of underinvestment mean only gullies, and not drainage lines, receive routine maintenance and that this only occurs once per year.

On the A8, DfI Roads confirmed that investigations are ongoing to find a permanent solution. The sustainable drainage system has become blocked due to lack of funding for routine maintenance, with grass growth and clogged filter stones reducing run-off. The Department hopes to address this in the next financial year, funding permitting.

Robin Swann MP said:

“Residents have been raising concerns about these flooding issues with my office. I welcome the confirmation that work has taken place, and that further action is planned, but the lack of routine maintenance remains a concern. I will continue to press for long-term solutions.”