Thousands of pounds of damage has been caused at a site of new-build houses in Lurgan – delaying new residents moving in.
The damage has occurred over the last number of weeks at the site on Franklyn Park in the Gilford Road area of the town, with a glass panel having been smashed as recently as last Tuesday evening.
Police have said that at some time overnight between Monday, April 22 and Tuesday, April 23, two young people entered the building site and caused “substantial damage” to a number of the new-build properties.
In an online post, the Mourneview and Grey Estate Community Association pleaded with the vandals to cease as new people moving into the homes have been delayed due to the damage.
Councillor Peter Haire was also among those condemning the damage.
He commented: “Anyone with any information please contact the PSNI. This is crazy someone is going to be seriously hurt. I have been in contact with the police and they will be stepping up patrols in this area.”
Police Sergeant Innes said: “We are currently carrying out enquiries, including reviewing footage from the area.
“We are aware that the community have concerns regarding the behaviour of a small number of young people and as such we have highlighted Franklyn Park for increased proactive patrolling.”
He added: “I would ask local parents and guardians to speak to their young people about where they are and who they are with, and to warn them of the dangers of getting involved in this type of behaviour. Ultimately, they could end up with a criminal record which may impact their future employment and travel prospects.
“Our neighbourhood team will continue to engage with residents, and we would ask that anyone who sees ongoing anti-social behaviour reports it to us on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Reporting crimes or incidents that impact on your quality of life helps us to focus our patrols where they are needed and take positive action.”
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