Water Worries

NI Water Funding Model "Not Fit for Purpose," Warns Fiscal Council

Northern Ireland's water infrastructure urgently requires investment, according to a new report from the NI Fiscal Council, which describes the current funding model as "not fit for purpose."

The Council warns that domestic water charges may be "inescapable" in the future to raise the necessary funds, as NI Water, a publicly owned body reliant on Executive funding, faces severe restrictions on its ability to invest. It estimates that catching up on essential development could take 18 years or more.

Underinvestment is already limiting economic growth, particularly in areas where commercial and residential development is needed.

Council Chair Sir Robert Chote said: "Water and sewerage services are essential to public health, environmental protection, and economic development. Charging for water or raising taxes would squeeze household finances, but avoiding action comes with its own costs."

The report notes that many households believe their water is paid through rates, but this has not been the case since 1998. Options such as privatisation or mutualisation have been ruled out by previous ministers.

Local Survey

New North Belfast Community Partnership Launches Public Survey to Shape Future Plans

A new initiative aimed at strengthening community ties in North Belfast is underway as local community groups come together to form the North Belfast Community Partnership. The development of this partnership is being co-ordinated by the Ashton Centre, with the goal of enhancing collaboration and addressing key issues across the area.

As part of this process, the Partnership has commissioned Ulster University to carry out research into residents’ experiences and attitudes. This important study, funded by the Department for Communities, will gather valuable insights from people living in the Neighbourhood Renewal areas of North Belfast.

Over the coming weeks, trained interviewers from Perceptive Insight – a professional and accredited polling company – will be visiting homes across the district to conduct face-to-face surveys. All interviewers will carry official identification for reassurance.

For those who prefer to take part online, the survey can also be completed via a QR code available at the Ashton Centre and displayed on selected bus shelters throughout North Belfast.

Residents are encouraged to take this opportunity to share their views and help shape the future direction of the North Belfast Community Partnership.

Noise Update

Ulster University Investigates Noise Breach Linked to Building Works

Ulster University has confirmed that recent investigations indicate noise levels associated with ongoing construction works may breach planning approval conditions. The issue has been classified as a contractual defect.

The matter has now been referred to the university’s Building Project Director, who has formally notified the contractor and is awaiting a response. The contractor has been asked to provide a timeline for addressing the issue, with the university stressing the need for urgent action.

In the interim, the university took immediate steps to reduce noise levels by switching off two of the three remaining operational pumps on Wednesday, leaving only one in use. Follow-up sound testing has shown a significant reduction in noise as a result.

Ulster University has stated it will issue further updates as soon as more information becomes available.

Demolition Update

Ulster University Holds Initial Meeting Ahead of Northland House Demolition

The Ulster University has taken a key step toward the redevelopment of its Belfast campus with a provisional meeting held last Friday alongside the company awarded the contract to demolish Northland House.

During the meeting, the contractor advised that initial site mobilisation is scheduled to begin on June 16, 2025. While this marks the beginning of the project, university officials confirmed that actual demolition works will not commence for several weeks after this date. Full-scale demolition operations are expected to begin in August 2025.

The university has committed to providing ongoing updates as the project progresses. The redevelopment of the Northland House site forms part of Ulster University's long-term vision for modernising and enhancing its campus infrastructure.

LARG will share further information as it becomes available.

Our news articles aim to highlight local impact or interest stories to keep the local community, residents and stakeholders updated and informed.  Each month a new link will appear highlighting the latest news articles.  If you have an news item you feel we should feature, please email us with the details to largbelfast@gmail.com.