Concern over siting of UDR monument

Our concern does not set out to deny such a memorial. It is the inappropriateness of the proposed site which is a cause for concern.

It would be better sited somewhere which is not divisive, contentious or confrontational.

These are the words of people we have spoken to in relation to this matter. Very nearly everyone who was spoken to is worried about the repercussions if the proposed plan proceeds. Comments were also made about the perceived clandestine manner in which the plans were approved.

Huge damage will be caused to community relations setting us back many years. Is this what we want?

There are also commercial considerations which have already been expressed by many business people. These would appear to have been totally ignored in the consultation process.

The commercial centre of Lisburn is very vulnerable to economic pressures. Placing this monument in such a sensitive site could alienate a significant proportion of customers. If the City centre is no longer seen as an inclusive shared space the business community will undoubtedly suffer.

One would also wonder what impact the memorial will have on the cultural centre of Lisburn. Years of hard work and effort have been given over to making the Museum and cultural centre of Lisburn as successful as it has become.

The neutral and inclusive nature of this extremely valuable asset to the people of Lisburn may be reduced by this monument being placed just outside the entrance.

We would very much like to have the views of many readers expressed as quickly as possible as apparently the monument is to be erected in about six weeks time.

It would appear that many people are loathe to speak out in view of the sensitive nature of the issue.

Concerned Ratepayers