The work will see the street closed off during the summer, as well as a future scheme for Killinchy Street.

Commenting after the meeting, Mr Hamilton welcomed the investment of £270,000 in schemes to install deep storm sewers following flash floods last year.

However he said there was “no doubt” that the sewerage system in Comber is creaking and in need of serious upgrading and that any future work would result in serious disruption to the town.

“I am in no doubt at all that the work itself and the requirement to close Castle Street to traffic for safety reasons will massively upset the lives of residents and traders for the duration of the scheme,” he said.

“I have met with NI Water, as well as their contractors and Phoenix Natural Gas who will also be laying gas pipelines at the same time so as to minimise overall disruption, to discuss these very issues.

“NI Water have informed me that they will consult widely with the local community to make them aware of their intentions and also to address any concerns that are raised. I have asked that they extend this consultation as widely as possible as it is essential

that NI Water are as open, transparent and available with the public as they can be.

“Pure and simple, this is not going to be an easy time for Comber but I would ask everyone that they see the ultimate benefits of the scheme and be patient during the construction period.”

Councillor Hamilton said that when the work is completed, Comber will “at last” be moving towards having a water and sewerage system that is suited to the 21st Century.