Parents relieved as safety is improved at local estate

Parents relieved as safety is improved at local estate

26 July 2017

CHILDREN at Lynn Doyle Place in Downpatrick can now play in a safe environment thanks to the Department for Communities.

The Stormont department has provided funding to erect a new safety railings around their play area which is adjacent to the town’s former police base. New sport and play equipment has also been provided under the Neighbourhood Renewal initiative.

Jeanette McCarthy, who is the chair of the Tósú Úr community group which includes a number of Downpatrick housing estates, is delighted with the new safety railings and play equipment.

“We initially approached the Housing Executive for help as the kids were playing football on the play area which was wide open. Sometimes the ball ran on to the main road that leads into Lynn Doyle which posed a safety risk,” she explained.

“We are all delighted the railings are now in place as the area is much safer for the children which was our main aim. Our priority, especially over the summer months when the children are off school, is to ensure they have a safe environment to play in.”

Jeanette said there are around 20 young people who live at Lynn Doyle Place and others who live in neighbouring estates also use the play area, adding: “The railings went up about a month ago and we are all pleased.”

Éammon Mac Con Midhe, secretary of the Downpatrick community group, is hoping that the local Policing and Community Safety Partnership will be able to help persuade the PSNI to paint murals on metal security fencing and a large concrete wall that runs alongside the play area.

“Money has been invested in this estate, but we are stuck with the large security fencing and concrete walls which we would like to see adorned with murals or something to brighten up what is a widely used children’s play area,” he added.

Raphael Crummy, from the Department for Communities, said it is pleased to be associated with the Lynn Doyle scheme, explaining its community development officers are asked to establish the needs of the area where they are based.

“An application was made to us for this particular scheme and it it is great to come today to see the railings in place and the children playing with new equipment in what is now a very safe area for them,” he continued.

“The Department wants to engage with communities and it is important they see we are providing help. Schemes likes this show that local and central government are listening to the concerns of people have around particular issues. Our main objective is to engage with people and try and help where we can.”

Housing Executive official, Bronagh Magorrian, explained the organisation has also been working closely with Tósú Úr to establish measures to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area.

“The railings around the play area will not only reduce the risk of crime, but also keep the children safe when playing outside. The play park has become a focal point for children across Downpatrick to come and enjoy,” she added.