NIHE to take action as antisocial behaviour at Dingwell spirals

Residents have called for an end to anti-social behaviour after the latest incident last weekend during which a house was attacked.

Police said at around 4.45am on Saturday, 8 December, a man was standing with a large group of people when he separated from them and attempted to enter a flat.

“When he could not gain entry he kicked the door and hit it with a bar. The window of the door was smashed,” said the PSNI.

“This is the third incident of criminal damage at this property over the last few weeks.”

There had been a campaign to have the flats which are owned by the NI Housing Executive closed down.

There have been numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour at these flats over the past few years and many Taghnevan residents feel they have become a magnet for youths drinking and doing drugs.

A spokesperson for Taghnevan Community Development Association said they were not aware of the incidents at Dingwell flats but ‘totally condemned’ the recent upsurge in anti-social behaviour in the area.

“We appeal to those involved to desist from these activities which only bring distress and hardship to residents who have lived here all their lives and take pride in their homes and their area. 

“We encourage residents to contact the appropriate agencies with their concerns or contact TCDA on 38324989 if we can be of assistance.”

A spokesperson for the Housine Executive said it is aware of the incident and is currently liaising with the police regarding their investigation.

“We have worked very closely over the past year with Taghnevan Community Development Association, local residents, the council and the PSNI to try and address issues of anti-social behaviour in the area of Dingwell Park flats. We are in the process of carrying out a number of initiatives aimed at improving the image of the area for residents and working pro-actively with the police to combat the anti-social behaviour.

“As a responsible landlord the Housing Executive treats reports of anti-social behaviour very seriously and will not hesitate to take action against any of its tenants found to be involved in this activity.

“We are aware that a petition has been drawn up by some residents in the local community asking for the flats to be demolished. The Housing Executive is not considering demolishing the flats as they are located in an area of high housing need and considerable investment has been made in recent years to provide new kitchens and gas heating to the flats.

“We would also envisage that the forthcoming changes, in relation to welfare reform and the under-occupancy charges, will increase the demand for one bedroom flats.

“We would again ask residents to report any anti-social behaviour to the Housing Executive or the PSNI so that appropriate action can be taken against those responsible.”

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the attack at Dingwell Park at the weekend to contact them on 0845 600 8000. Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.