Armagh Pumping Station For Demolition

A Co Armagh pumping station could soon be demolished after revelations that it broke planning regulations.

The station was built at the corner of Russwood Park and Gilford Road in Portadown. Following complaints from residents, however, it emerged that the facility was larger than it should have been and built at a different location from where permission was granted.

Responding to an Assembly question tabled by Lower Bann MP David Simpson, Northern Ireland Environment Minister Edwin Poots (pictured) said the Planning Service has asked NI Water to provide a full planning application.

Mr Simpson referred to the station as a "carbuncle".

"The proposal involved a new pumping station to be located underground with the only above ground elements being a control panel kiosk and a telemetry pole," said Minister Poots during the recent session.

"However in November 2009, following commencement of works on site, Planning Service received a number of complaints regarding the size of the kiosk being erected on site. Planning Service has investigated and confirmed that the kiosk as erected does not have the benefit of planning permission as it is larger than approved and located in a different position on the site.

"Planning Service has since requested a full planning application in order to fully assess the acceptability of the larger kiosk. To date, an amended application has not been received."

(NS/GK)