Drumglass Park Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) Proposal Enters Public Consultation Phase

Belfast City Council, in partnership with NI Water and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has lunched a public consultation for a SuDS proposal at Drumglass Park in South Belfast. 

The project is part of a £15 million four-year pilot funded by the Northern Ireland Executive’s Public Sector Transformation Fund to demonstrate how nature drainage solutions can manage urban water flow.

During periods of heavy and prolonged rainfall, NI's water sewers experience extreme pressure. 

As a result out-of-sewer flooding occurs on the Lisburn Road and nearby sewer overflows pollute the Blackstaff River.

Nature-based sustainable drainage can help address drainage and wastewater issues. 

Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) mimic natural drainage processes by slowing, storing, and treating rainwater (or surface water) close to where it falls.

How the project will introduce a natural drainage process:

• SuDS Pond: A new pond with a permanent body of water located at the park’s natural low point.
• Swale: A small stream will be created to divert water from an existing surface water pipeline into the pond.
• Storage Basin: Landscaped areas around the pond will fill with water during heavy rain and release it at a controlled, safe rate into the drainage system.
• Biodiversity Features: The pond features gently sloping sides and specialised planting to provide habitats for wetland wildlife.

By easing sewer pressure, these systems unlock housing and economic growth that limited infrastructure would otherwise block.

While the proposal has been met with enthusiasm by some, concerns have been raised about potential impacts on the park's landscape and accessibility.

Brain Kingston, representing the area said: "It's crucial that any changes to Drumglass Park are done in consultation with the community. We must balance flood resilience with the needs of the park users, ensuring that the park remains a welcoming space for everyone."

Public Consultation 

The consultation will run from the 22nd June to 4th September 2026, which an online survey can be submitted via YourSay.

An open drop in session will be held on August 12th 2026 at Drumglass Park. The session will provide an opportunity for locals to view detailed plans, ask questions and share direct feedback.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027 pending approvals.