Ards Councillor Kellie Armstrong is disappointed at the level of vandalism around local play grounds and is calling on parents to speak to older children and young adults to help reduce instances of anti-social behaviour.
Cllr Armstrong, Chair of the Council’s Community and Well Being Committee, said: “I am really disappointed that over the past week some of the Peninsula’s play parks have been damaged, preventing children from being able to play safely. Damage includes graffiti, broken equipment, broken glass and littering
“I reported all incidents to Council staff who will repair and clean up the mess made by others. Repairs cost money. The cost will be met through the rates we all pay.
“Local residents have reported groups of older children and young adults using the play parks in the late evenings and at night. This includes parks in Ballyhalbert, Ballywalter and Portaferry. The next day the play parks are left damaged and in one case a dangerous state due to broken glass.
“I have asked the PSNI to follow up on reports as the damage is being caused at specific areas by groups of young people.xa0This anti-social behaviour is not wanted by anyone in our community. I call upon parents of older children and young adults to speak to their children, to ensure their child is not causing damage or nuisance.”
“I appreciate many will comment saying there is nowhere for older children or young adults to go,” said Cllr Armstrong. I ask those parents and young people to contact me. Myself, the Council and others can only help if we are aware of what the community issues are and where the community are prepared to work with Council to create opportunities.
“I remind all that these play parks are owned by the community and are maintained by the Council for the community. Damaging property costs the community and ratepayers money to put right”.
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