Vandals target Culcavy houses

Windows and doors of houses in Apex Housing Association’s development were broken and water damage was caused.

Downshire Councillor, Uel Mackin condemned the attack on the housing scheme located on the Aghnatrisk Road.

Mr Mackin said: “There is a severe need for social housing across the Lisburn City Council area and this development of 22 houses by Apex Housing Association at Culcavy will assist in part to meet that need.

“It integrates very well into surrounding area and will add to the mix of house type on offer in the locality.

“The new properties are of good proportion and quality and it is therefore disappointing that persons unknown should decide to cause several thousand pounds worth of damage involving severe water damage in addition to broken doors and windows to seven houses.”

Mr Mackin said there is no place for this behaviour in the community. “These new houses were due for completion in the coming few weeks but the actions of whoever was involved has now put that back because of the level of repairs that need to be carried out,” he commented.”

He continued: “Quite frankly I don’t understand the rationale or the motivation behind such wanton vandalism or criminal damage but whatever it is there is no place for it in this locality and I have no hesitation on condemning such behaviour.”

Mr Nackin added: “Culcavy is a much sought after area and is a settled community so the last thing we want are individuals, from wherever they come, disrupting that situation.

“I know that PSNI resources are under pressure but I have asked that there is an increased police presence in the area.”

A spokesperson for the developmetn said: “Apex is disappointed at the vandalism and destruction to our properties under construction at Aghnatrisk Road, Culcavy.

“This development is a significant investment by Apex and the Department for Social Development that will provide modern, energy efficient houses for families who are in dire need of accommodation.

“We would ask the local community to report any suspicious activity on our site to the PSNI.”