Preparatory works for the £60 million Portadown Flood Alleviation Scheme are officially moving forward, with site clearance and advanced engineering tasks commencing on Saturday 24 January 2026.

This initial stage of Phase 1 involves essential service diversions and the removal of specific trees and vegetation. These activities have been scheduled to ensure all necessary clearance is completed before the bird nesting season begins. The project is a critical component of Northern Ireland's infrastructure strategy to mitigate the increasing threat of river flooding caused by climate change. Once fully implemented, the scheme will provide enhanced safety for more than 380 homes and businesses across 21 locations in the Portadown area. The Department for Infrastructure has confirmed that environmental impact was a primary consideration during the planning phase. Following an arboricultural impact assessment and specialist advice, several design amendments were made specifically to minimize the removal of existing trees.

To offset the environmental impact:

- Reinstatement: Areas where vegetation must be removed will be replanted with similar species wherever possible.

- Compensatory Planting: In cases where original sites cannot be used, new planting will take place in alternative suitable locations, coordinated with local landowners.

- Progress to Date: The Department has already overseen the planting of 1,200 trees within the Portadown area.

Officials are continuing to collaborate with local stakeholders to find further opportunities for compensatory planting. Public updates will remain available via the Department's official scheme website as the project develops.