Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle O’Neill, has announced the award of a contract for a £1.35m flood alleviation scheme at Beragh, Co Tyrone.

Construction work, which will start shortly, is expected to take a year to complete. The scheme will see the construction of flood defences to protect property at four different locations within the village.

Minister O'Neill, who has responsibility for the Rivers Agency, said: "The flooding which the community has experienced in recent years highlights the need for this vital work. I am pleased to announce that the contractor will start work shortly on this essential project, which will provide flood protection to 20 properties.

"Rivers Agency has worked very closely with the local community throughout the development of this scheme and has already undertaken interim measures to reduce the risk of flooding, in advance of the permanent scheme being completed. I hope today's announcement will give assurance to residents and property owners."

This work has been awarded to BSG Civil Engineering Ltd, Maghera, with construction commencing shortly and expected to be complete by early 2015.

(MH/JP)