A playpark in Taghnevan has been closed to the public due to an overwhelming amount of vandalism, including the spraying of “racist graffiti”.
In 2021, the playpark benefitted from £75,000 of investment and was opened to excited children in the Craigavon area by former Lord Mayor Kevin Savage.
It boasted a variety of fresh new equipment including an inclusive roundabout, sensory panels, basket swing, harness swing, toddler and flat swings, a junior and senior unit, springer and seat spinner… all suitable for children up to the age of 14.
Sadly, in the last number of months, the site has become the target of malicious vandalism which one parent says covers “every inch” of the equipment.
Armagh I contacted a frequent user of the playpark who had photographed the extent of the damage in early April.
She understands that the park closed days after the photo was taken.
Another concerned resident took to social media to vent their frustration upon learning of the park’s closure, commenting: “So I’ve just been informed that the park in Taghnevan is closed because of racial graffiti sprayed on some of the equipment.
“I’ve also been told that it will remain closed until September. I’m hoping this is incorrect and that my community is not a victim of collective punishment because of the actions of a few.
“I would call on our elected reps to seek clarification on this matter; as we approach the summer holidays our children should not be denied the use of the park.”
Seeing this comment, Sinn Féin Councillor Mary O’Dowd said she would “look into it” first thing and provide the community with an update of her findings.
A spokesperson for Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council said: “The play park at Taghnevan has been subject to ongoing vandalism for several months, including repeated graffiti and damage to play equipment.
“Due to the scale of these incidents, the Council has temporarily closed the park while it works with statutory partners to address anti-social behaviour at this location.
“Once the situation has improved, the remaining graffiti will be removed and the park will reopen.
“We encourage parents to speak with their children about respecting these important amenities, as anti-social behaviour in our parks serves no purpose and diminishes the enjoyment of spaces valued by local communities.”
