Newly appointed Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins has reaffirmed her commitment to tackling Northern Ireland’s ageing wastewater infrastructure through funding, collaboration, and innovative solutions. Speaking in the Assembly this week, she acknowledged the significant challenges caused by years of underfunding but emphasized that steps can be taken to improve the system for the future.
Minister Kimmins highlighted recent funding allocations, stating, “NI Water was recently allocated an additional £19.5 million, to unlock wastewater capacity enabling 2,300 new homes to be built and connected in Antrim, Derry and Tyrone. This is part of their £0.5 billion allocation for this year, which is just under 40% of the total non-ring-fenced budget available for my entire Department.” She stressed her commitment to securing additional investment by working closely with Executive colleagues.
Recognizing that there is no quick fix, she underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration. “That is why I am exploring options for developer contributions, and I have also tasked my officials to work at a strategic level with the Department for Communities and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to establish better ways of working together to increase housing provision.”
Following an introductory meeting held this week with NI Water Chairperson Jo Aston and Chief Executive Dr. Sara Venning, Minister Kimmins reinforced her commitment to working closely with NI Water to tackle these challenges. “I am committed to ensuring that we collectively use the available budget to maximum effect. I will work with Executive colleagues to make the case for further investment for NI Water.” Northern Ireland Water, established in April 2007, is the government-owned company utility for delivering water and sewerage services across Northern Ireland.
Minister Kimmins highlighted at the Assembly the importance of nature-based solutions to modernizing the wastewater infrastructure. “Later this year, I will be introducing a Water, Flooding and Sustainable Drainage Bill to the Assembly. We need to look to nature itself and integrate nature-based solutions into our water and wastewater management if we are to future-proof the system.” She detailed the expected benefits, including improved water quality, enhanced sewerage system performance, reduced storm overflows, and decreased flooding risks. Additionally, she noted that these initiatives could provide cost savings on electricity for wastewater pumping and treatment.
Emphasizing the necessity of a forward-thinking approach, Minister Kimmins concluded, “I am committed to finding practical and innovative solutions to not only unlock capacity, but to deliver a better water and wastewater infrastructure to meet the needs of our growing population.”
With investment, legislative reform, and strong partnerships, the Minister aims to ensure Northern Ireland’s wastewater infrastructure can support housing growth, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
