The Killylea Road underpass in Armagh has undergone a much-needed clean up, with litter and drugs paraphernalia removed.
Repairs were also made to the gates and new locks were fitted, with the gates having been forced open in recent times.
The area has long been regarded as a hotbed for anti-social behaviour and littering, meaning local residents will undoubtedly regard the clean up as long overdue.
The tunnel, which is a pedestrian underpass going under the Killylea Road, received a £24,000 facelift in 2016 that involved the removal of the steps at the Emania Terrace entry point and the installation of a new fenced area.
However, the gates have been locked for a number of years, leaving the tunnel not only inaccessible for use but also as a dumping ground for litter, including shopping trolleys.
Prior to the work, the locks were broken on the gate, leaving the tunnel open to anti-social behaviour
Back in February, Malachy J Toal, a resident in the area, contacted Armagh I expressing his concerns around the impact that the tunnel was having on the local community.
He said that it had been a “major, ongoing problem” and, despite pleas to a local MLA, there had been no action on the issue.
Later that month, Connor, another resident, told Armagh I that the anti-social behaviour in the area is “chronic and ongoing”.
Although it’s been eight months since we first highlighted the issue, the residents of Emania Terrace may finally be seeing some form of resolution, as what was long regarded as an eyesore in the area has been completely restored.
Commenting on the new work, SDLP councillor Thomas O’Hanlon said: “Thanks to the team in Council for giving the tunnel underpass at Killylea Road, Armagh an overdue clean up this week.
“I’m working with police to ensure the area is is free from anti-social behaviour where local residents can live in peace and quiet. Thanks again to the lads in Council for a job well done!”
