Reservoir Safety Framework Approved By Executive

Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd has has welcomed the Executive's approval of a new Reservoir Safety Framework.

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is now authorised to implement the necessary secondary legislation to establish a framework for controlled reservoirs under the Reservoirs Act (Northern Ireland) 2015.

The Act mandates reservoir managers to assume responsibility for the safety of their reservoirs. It applies to controlled reservoirs with a capacity of 10,000 cubic meters or more. Reservoir managers will be required to register their reservoirs and appoint specialised engineers to assess safety matters. Additionally, the DfI has the authority to create a grant scheme to assist with related costs. Minister O'Dowd emphasised the importance of this framework in safeguarding both human life and property.

Minister O'Dowd said: "My Department is currently aware of 176 potential controlled reservoirs in the North. This legislation will regulate the safety of reservoir structures. Preventing the risk to life, property, the environment, the economy and areas of cultural heritage from a catastrophic flood due to reservoir failure.

"I recognise the concerns raised by some during the consultation process, and initial costs will be incurred for supervision and inspection by specialised engineers. This initial inspection process is needed to assess the condition of the reservoir and identify matters in the interest of safety.

"However, I can reassure reservoir owners that I intend to introduce a grant scheme for those who need it, assisting reservoir managers to meet their obligations under the Act."