09 May 2012

Executive Endorsement For Private Bore Wells Scheme Secured

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has secured the Executive’s agreement for a grant scheme that could benefit isolated rural households without access to mains water.

Grants for a bore well will be available to owners and landlords of domestic properties, not served by a mains water supply. The new scheme is expected to open this summer and run for four years, subject to demand.

The 'Rural Bore Wells Scheme' is developed and funded by the Department for Regional Development, (DRD). The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will administer the scheme through the, ‘Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework’.

The overall cost of the scheme will depend on the uptake but the maximum cost per dwelling is estimated to be around £10,000.

Mr Kennedy said: "This initiative could benefit isolated rural dwellings not currently served by a water main. This innovative cross-departmental scheme will help provide affordable access to a wholesome water supply for those who are outside the reach of the public network.

"Working with our colleagues in the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development this scheme can help address longstanding concerns about isolated dwellings where the cost of extending the mains network is prohibitive."

(CD)