Arson lights to be fixed

Arson lights to be fixed

27 July 2016

TRAFFIC lights at the Killough Road in Downpatrick vandalised by teenagers during a recent arson attack are to be repaired.

The lights, which allow residents to cross safely between the Model Farm and Flying Horse estates, were targeted several weeks ago and those responsible were roundly condemned by those who live in the area, community representatives and politicians.

Councillor Cadogan Enright has welcomed the decision to repair the lights which were installed to also facilitate people wishing to access the Ballymote shopping centre and nearby multi-million pound health and wellbeing centre.

He said while Transport NI was initially reluctant to repair the damaged traffic lights, it is his understanding that the work is to proceed and will be welcomed by residents at one of the most densely populated areas of Downpatrick.

Councillor Enright said roads officials sought assurance from him, community partners, other elected representatives and the PSNI that anti-social behaviour in the area had been resolved to a satisfactory level before they would commit to repairing the lights.

“I was able to provide assurances that there had been a big increase in the co-ordination of all the social partners locally, not least community police officers and local community activists,” he continued. 

“A residents’ meeting was held recently at St Colmcille’s Primary School with the Housing Executive, Newry, Mourne and Down Council, PSNI and representatives from all sections of the community in attendance. It is clear that the recent upsurge in anti-social behaviour is being dealt with effectively.”

Councillor Enright said it’s the view of all the local statutory agencies and voluntary groups that the key players are working together to effectively alter the atmosphere in the area, making it unacceptable for hooligans to attack essential services which the elderly, disabled and children rely on especially.

He added: ““On this basis, I felt it reasonable to inform Transport NI that it can have the confidence to repair the traffic lights and that restoring them will aid us in cementing community calmness and harmony. The damage stands out in a manner at the moment that would not aid our work in countering anti-social behaviour in the area.”

PSNI Chief Inspector, Barney O’Connor, said there has been a very “swift and effective response” to the recent spate of criminal and anti-social activity within the Ballymote area, principally by the residents themselves who have shown they are totally against this behaviour within their community. 

“Residents have been supported by both voluntary and statutory partners, including the PSNI, Policing and Community Safety Partnership and the Housing Executive. I trust that this work to date and continuing initiatives will lead to a peaceful and enjoyable summer within the Ballymote area,” he added.

Transport NI’s Heather Bradley said the crossing facility had been vandalised on a number of occasions and each time the organisation has made the necessary repairs at expense to the public purse. 

She added: “This latest damage, which has resulted in the crossing being set on fire, will require significant expenditure to restore it. One side of the crossing has been burned down completely and the other side has significant damage which will require a complete reinstallation of equipment.”