Northern Ireland Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has visited Muff Glen Forest Park in Eglinton, Co Derry, to view new nature based flood management measures installed as part of a pilot project aimed at reducing local flood risk.

The Department of Infrastructure, working with the Loughs Agency and with permission from the DAERA Forest Service, has installed ten leaky dams in the forest upstream of the village. The structures are designed to slow water during heavy rainfall and reduce the volume of flows reaching Eglinton.

Speaking during the visit, Ms Kimmins said the area has a long and complex history of flooding from surface water and the river. She said the leaky dams provide a natural method that supports traditional engineering by mimicking natural processes and temporarily storing water.

She said the pilot will help shape future use of natural flood management across the North and support efforts to protect both communities and water quality.

The Minister said residents in Eglinton, Ivy Mead and Drumahoe who have previously experienced flooding are seeking reassurance. She said she remains committed to progressing practical flood alleviation proposals. Feasibility studies have outlined potential solutions and the next step is to prepare a business case.

Ms Kimmins said the leaky dams, which are being delivered under Living with Water principles, will operate alongside the business case process to provide limited immediate benefit while longer term infrastructure solutions are developed. She said targeted watercourse maintenance and emergency support will continue and that community engagement, including the work of Community Resilience Groups, remains central to preparing for severe weather events.