Fix it permanently – Sion Hill resident

Sion Hill resident Joel Poyer wants the relevant authorities to come up with a permanent fix to the regular build-up of water at the south western end of the Sion Hill Playing Field.

That area gets a pool-type setting whenever there are heavy rains over a long period.

However, Poyer, who is a forest technician by occupation, believes its frequent occurrence is as a result of some “engineering errors” which occurred when the playing field underwent major rehabilitation in 2006- 2007.

“This playing field, which in 2007, when we spend so much money in developing ahead of Cricket World Cup …they did not pay attention to the flooding situation in this corner, which I know was raised during the reconstruction and layout of the playing area,” Poyer reasoned.

Poyer suggested that had a box drain been built, it would have taken care of the run-off from the adjoining landfill and the nearby streams.

He said that with the playing field bordering a stream, it makes it easier for flooding to take place, coupled with periods of heavy rainfall.

“Just getting rid of the water which has built up will not work, but a box drain will channel the water away from the playing field, instead of what happens now, where it takes its own path,” Poyer claimed.

Meanwhile, facilities manager of the National Sports Council Lance John said all concerned parties, namely CWSA and BRAGSA, are aware of the situation and will be moving soonest to come up with a solution.

He indicated to SEARCHLIGHT that the flooding at the site came about from a build-up of silt, due to the non-clearing of the drain that runs from the Mustique Airways hangar parallel to the playing field.

“It is not a case of tardiness, but currently several of the [pieces of] machinery needed to do such work are in the North Windward area and as soon as the equipment is available, the drains will be cleared,” John stated.

However, Poyer, whilst acknowledging his suggestion will take some financial doing, wants the immediate corrective measures to be done soonest, as the protracted presence of the “pool” can cause several health issues.

“The playing field is close to the Sion Hill Government School; also there are persons who come here to play sports and exercise … The pool therefore can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and vermin … When the grass builds up they (the vermin) can easily hide and defecate, which can come in contact with users of the playing field… Also certain water-borne diseases can be spread with the presence of the water which has been there for more than a month now,” Poyer explained.

Poyer noted that if any long-term fix of the problem is pursued, it should involve several government agencies, as it affects not only sports, but health, as well as infrastructure.(RT)