Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council members raised concerns over Northern Ireland Water's reduced funding during a presentation on February 23. Dr Stephen Blockwell, head of investment management, engineering and sustainability at NI Water, and Gary Lawther, head of developer services, metering and billing, outlined constraints on wastewater systems and new developments.

Funding for NI Water dropped to 321 million pounds annually since 2024, down from 500 to 600 million pounds previously agreed with the regulator, creating a 650 million pound shortfall. Blockwell stated this limits upgrades to essential infrastructure, connections for new homes and businesses, and environmental improvements, with effects lasting beyond five years.

Councillor Keith Ratcliffe pointed to raw sewage releases near Clare village along the River Cusher during storms, citing a 2021 figure of seven million tonnes discharged yearly into rivers. He linked this to environmental damage reaching Lough Neagh. Blockwell noted NI Water accounts for 26 percent of pollution contributions there and directed councillors to the company's website for current spill data.

Delays affect residential planning in Markethill, where feasibility studies continue for one to two years before integration into the next business plan, subject to funding availability. Alderman Greenfield queried timelines for 13 sites with potential solutions, referencing a developer's Article 154 application since January after planning approval in May 2024.

Lawther described the process starting with pre-development enquiries and wastewater impact assessments, responded to within 60 working days, followed by up to one year for Article 154 designs. NI Water committed to reviewing the specific case and providing further details to councillors later.

Northern Ireland Water manages the region's water and wastewater services amid ongoing debates over sustainable public funding, especially after Stormont's restoration. Councillors including Peter Lavery and Thomas O’Hanlon sought additional clarifications on local impacts.