Play park a ‘hostile environment’ for younger children

Concerns over the behaviour of older children at the park have been raised by Ulster Unionist Councillor Louise McKinstry.

She said: “Older children are dominating the play equipment, using abusive langauge and being quite intimidating.”

The councillor said there had also been some fighting and police had been made aware of the situation.

She went on: “We have a wonderful resource but it must be one that everyone can enjoy.

“A lot of people are staying away because of these youths.”

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has condemned those responsible for the anti-social behaviour in Lurgan Park play park.

A spokesperson said: “Council has been made aware of anti-social behaviour in Lurgan Park play park by an older group of youths.

“Council staff have on a number of occasions moved these individuals away from the play park as they were creating a hostile environment for younger children.”

The spokesperson added: “This is a beautiful play park, enjoyed by children and families of all ages and they should not be subjected to offensive language or feel intimidated.

“Council strongly encourages local people to report this type of behaviour to the PSNI on 101”

A £250,000 refurbishment of the children’s play park in Lurgan Park was completed recently.

The refurbished play park is said to be ABC Council’s most inclusive play facility to date, which aims to champion play by providing play opportunities for all children and their families.

Work on the park was completed during lockdown.

The £250,000 investment is part of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s Play Strategy 2018-2026. The eight-year strategy “puts ABC Council at the forefront of health, recreation and leisure in Northern Ireland, actively championing play to help improve understanding of its critical importance to children and young people”.

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