A discharge of raw sewage on the River Bann in Coleraine has prompted an outcry by a member of the Harbour Commissioners. Robert Anderson, who operates River Bann Cruises, witnessed items including sanitary towels, condoms and faeces flowing into the river near Riversdale.
Mr Anderson is particularly aggrieved by Northern Ireland Water which recently spent £45m on a wastewater treatment plant in nearby Portrush, in order to treat wastewater from urban areas such as Coleraine. Concern has also been raised as to the effect the material will have on the river’s habitat, as well as the health and safety of those using the river.
A spokesperson for NIW said, “Following torrential rain on Wednesday, August 18, the Riversdale Sewage Pumping Station and storm tanks became overwhelmed which resulted in a consented discharge of storm water from an Emergency Relief Overflow into the River Bann.”
They continued, “The items found in the river, specifically sanitary towels and condoms, are there because they are being flushed down toilets when they should be placed in the bin. The safe and proper disposal of these items can help reduce the risk of blocked drains and sewers and the likelihood of flooding to properties and the pollution of the watercourse.”
