Vandalism condemned

Former DUP Mayor, Alderman Maurice Devenney, said he had been “infuriated” to learn that an area of fencing had been targeted by vandals after so much care had been taken to improve the visual amenity of the area.

“I absolutely condemn the criminal damage to this fencing. This was part of a project costing tens of thousands of pounds, with the money spent on the pathway bringing it up to a very modern standard so people could use it for health and relaxation. I am infuriated to learn that part of the fence has been cut down,” he said.

“The area had been redesigned and revamped to make it a welcome place for people and to reduce anti-social activity, which was blighting the area. Unfortunately, the much-needed improvements do not seem to have met with the approval of some quarters, who have seen fit to cut a large section of the fence away.

“I want those responsible to know that I have now spoken to Council officers about getting the fence repaired and a strengthened form of fencing put in, and I have also spoken to the PSNI about the activities of those indulging in anti-social behaviour, and the PSNI have agreed that the proposed reinforced style of barrier that will be erected will curb any future attempts to cut a hole in the fencing in that area,” Mr Devenney said.