Concern over further arson attack on flats

Concern over further arson attack on flats

17 December 2014

HOUSING Executive officials have expressed alarm at the latest arson attack at a block of flats in Downpatrick.

McLaughlin House has been targeted on a number of occasions over recent months, with the most serious incident earlier in the year resulting in one resident having to be rescued by fire fighters and others having to move out to allow repair work to be carried out.

The most recent incident occurred two weekends ago and Executive officials are concerned it took place following a £15,000 refurbishment programme. Housing officers say they have been in contact with residents at the flats complex and are urging them to remain vigilant. 

The Executive’s area manager, Loma Wilson, said she was “angered” to learn of the latest arson attack on McLaughlin House and is encouraging anyone with information about the incident to contact police. She said it’s vital the perpetrator is caught.

The manager explained the Executive is also actively working to resolve anti-social behaviour problems through early intervention and mediation.

“This approach is often successful, preventing the need for more serious action to be taken. We want to work closely with the community to ensure no further incidents occur at McLaughlin House and we nip problems in the bud across the area. I would encourage people to report incidents as and when they occur. Unless we know about them, we cannot tackle a situation,” Loma. continued.

The Executive official explained McLaughlin House operates a door entry system with a security call panel providing controlled access to the six flats. She said this ensures only tenants and those to whom they grant access can enter the communal areas.

Additionally, only residents have keys for the back door of the building and each of the individual properties is fitted with a fire alarm. Loma explained the housing organisation recently arranged for an independent fire risk assessor to look at the building and some minor recommendations which were made have been implemented. 

The contact number for the Executive’s Downpatrick office for residents concerned about noisy and disruptive tenants, neglected gardens, illegal structures, dog nuisance and the use of the organisation’s premises for business or illegal purposes is 03448 920 900.

Members of the public who have concerns about criminal damage, assaults, violence, intimidation and public drinking are asked to contact the PSNI on the 101 emergency number.

Executive officials say those who have concerns about a potential hate crime should contact the housing body or PSNI, while concerns in relation to littering, dog attacks, illegal dumping and vermin should be referred to Down Council.