The Alliance representative is also calling upon residents to report when the smell is particularly bad in order to establish areas affected and if problem relates to tidal times, heavy rainfall or the nearby waste water treatment plant.
Commenting on the issue, Councillor Andrew Muir said: “I have been campaigning on this issue since becoming a Councillor over two years ago and am determined to see the issue resolved. After securing over £3m funding to fix the problem I have now been assured by NI Water that work has taken place to investigate exact cause and potential solutions.
“Construction work is due to commence next year in two phases. Phase One will involve a new set-up to stop further pollution of the Kinnegar lagoons which are now heavily polluted with raw sewage. Phase Two will involve necessary remedial work to clean up the lagoons.”
Continuing, Councillor Muir remarked: “During my meeting I reiterated my profound disappointment that the problem remains unresolved outlining the high degree of interest shown by many including Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for the Environment. Holywood residents, workers and visitors shouldn’t have to endure this smell any longer. Our environment should be protected and enhanced not destroyed and abused.
“Whilst samples have been taken to ascertain source of the terrible smell NI Water remain unsure of the exact cause and if external factors are causing the problem such as tidal times, heavy rainfall or the nearby waste water treatment plant. I would therefore encourage local residents to report to me when they experience particularly bad sewage smells.
“Residents should email mail@andrewmuir.net or text 07813 945411 when the smell is especially bad, detailing time and date and location. Information gathered will then be passed onto NI Water in early 2013 to facilitate final design of the solution urgently required and sought by many.”