WBS breached flooding laws in previous project

WESTERN Building Systems was convicted in 2016 over a housing development that violated flooding laws – and it may be facing additional action.

The development, Moor Park, consisted of 30 semi-detached houses on Moor Road outside Coalisland, Co. Tyrone. It was surrounded on two sides by a moat, and was accessed by a bridge.

Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill said at the time that the plans could ‘further enhance an already severe problem with flooding in the area’.

Planning permission was granted within measures to reduce the flood risk to neighbouring land and property.

However, planners pursued enforcement proceedings over fears that not all of the prevention measures were completed.

Western Building Systems was previously convicted for breach of a planning condition.

A spokesman for the Mid Ulster District Council confirmed that additional legal action is being considered.

At the beginning of this year, construction of a flood wall began near Moor Park.

WBS defended its part in the project, saying: ‘This concerns delays in a planning process outside of our control, as accepted by the Judge who adjudicated. We have made efforts to resolve matters, as accepted by the Judge.’