Safety concerns at a Newry play park have been raised after young children gained access to a “dangerous” work site.
The Martin’s Lane park has previously been the target of anti-social behaviour which resulted in the child facility being left in need of maintenance.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has now removed the temporary metal fencing around the now fixed trampoline after a parent raised risks of injury to small kids.
The concerned local mother, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “I was at the park and I was shocked to see that this type of dangerous unsecured fencing had been put up where children play. It only took a matter of moments for small children to push over the fencing and gain access to the trampoline.
“Instead of protecting children from entering the trampoline area, it was more of a hazard and some small child could have been hurt.”
She added: “It seems to me that the council has not taken the safety of children from this area into account, when it should be a priority. It’s just by chance no small child was seriously hurt.”
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) has seen the images of children inside the security fencing area.
In 2023, the council closed the Martin’s Lane park at the Loanda estate from early May due to an arson attack on trampoline equipment.
It carried out over £4,000 repairs and reopened the playground some five months later. However, the trampoline has once again required essential repairs.
Newry Sinn Fein rep, Aidan Mathers said: “The repairs to the park are a long overdue step in addressing safety concerns raised by both residents and the council.
“I’m pleased that the much-needed repairs to Martin’s Lane play park have now been completed, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable space for local children and families. While this is positive news, it’s essential that the council improves communication with residents on safety concerns and project timelines going forward.
“Timely and transparent engagement helps build trust and ensures the community stays informed.”
He added: “I encourage parents to ensure children respect the park and use it responsibly. I also urge residents to remain vigilant and report antisocial or criminal behaviour so the park remains a welcoming space for all.
“I will continue working with residents and the council to push for local repairs and ensure safety and welfare of residents is top priority right across our communities.”
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is a leading voice in health and safety that campaigns to reduce avoidable accidents at home, on the road, at work and at leisure.
Its website states: “Not all playgrounds need fencing and not all fence types are suitable for playgrounds. Where fencing is required we recommend the provision of good quality fencing. In all cases the fencing should not contain any safety hazards.”
The LDRS contacted the council to ask if the local authority believed the fencing used was secure and safe in a play park used by children.
A spokesperson said: “Newry, Mourne and Down District Council can confirm that the trampoline at Martin’s Lane play park has now been repaired and is back in use.
“The fencing previously installed to restrict access has been removed, and the full facility is open to the public.”
