‘Peace line’ fence row in North Lisburn

It is believed the fence was put up over the weekend following a dispute in the area. Oaklee Homes Group who own properties in the Pond Park area was made aware on Monday about the fence.

Tenants in the Oaklee properties who use the path to take a shortcut to local schools and shops have described it as being like a “peace line” and are demanding it be removed as soon as possible as it is preventing them from taking shorter routes. However residents from Ballymacash Park area say the fence has been put up as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour following heightened tension in the area over the weekend.

A spokesperson for Oaklee said it was first approached by elected representatives and some residents from Ballymacash in June requesting that a fence be erected between the two developments.

They said: “Oaklee was unaware of any serious incidents or any reason that would justify the two estates being separated. Oaklee consulted with its tenants in Pond Park in August and there was a clear indication from Pond Park and other tenants in the area, including their neighbours from Ballymacash that they use the path to bring children to schools, shops and to visit family and friends.

“Oaklee has received reports about a dispute in the area between tenants over the weekend and following this the makeshift fence was erected.

“It is clear that the majority of tenants wish to continue to be linked and live alongside their neighbours in Ballymacash. Oaklee is working with local elected representatives, the police and the housing executive to resolve any concerns and remove this inconvenience for residents of the area.”

A resident from Ballymacash Park said that since the original fence was taken down several years ago the path has become a “major walkway in North Lisburn” and it has become a very sensitive issue.

“Cars have been damaged, houses have been burgled and stoned - we need a fence,” they insisted.