A children’s play park in Lurgan Park has been closed on health and safety grounds after faeces were discovered on one of the playground’s large slides.
The incident came to light on Tuesday evening after a young girl reportedly came into contact with the substance while using the equipment.
According to DUP Councillor Peter Haire, the child was left extremely distressed by the incident, with the contamination so severe that her clothing had to be removed and disposed of.
Councillor Haire said he attended the scene following reports of the incident and, together with the park ranger, made the decision to close the play park immediately.
“It was brought to my attention this evening that there was a concerning incident at the play park in Lurgan Park,” he said.
“Faeces had been found on one of the large slides, leaving a young girl extremely distressed after coming into contact with it. The situation was so severe that her clothing had to be removed and disposed of.”
It remains unclear whether the faeces had been left deliberately or whether the incident was accidental.
Councillor Haire described the situation as a serious public health hazard and said it could not be taken lightly.
The play park will remain closed for a period on Thursday while council staff carry out a thorough cleaning and sanitisation of the affected area.
“I apologise for the inconvenience this may cause, but the safety and wellbeing of children and families must come first,” he added.
Members of the public are advised to respect the closure while the necessary cleaning works are completed.
