Over £5,000 worth of fish have been killed during wanton destruction at a Green Flag award-winning Co Armagh Park.
Taking to social media, a frequent visitor of Edenvilla Park, Portadown shared images of the destruction and sadly deceased fish.
Damage included glass panels on a bridge smashed and rubbish and wood panels discarded in the pond beneath, where Koi Carp fish had been placed for the enjoyment of visitors.
The park – on the outskirts of Portadown – dates back to the mid-1960s and features a collection of striking wooden sculptures from the Alice in Wonderland children’s story.
It spans 25.5 acres of maintained grassland and forest with a “secret garden”, with tropical and Japanese plants, bird aviary and fish pond, which has borne the brunt of the damage.
In 2020/21, the bucolic park received the prized Green Flag Award – a mark of outstanding quality.
Sharing images, the disgruntled and disappointed visitor said: “What the hell is going on at Edenvilla? £5000 worth of fish killed. My Grandkids love this place. Used by schools and disabled groups.
“Total destruction for no reason. Scumbags breaking in with drink and think this is fun. Hopefully they will be caught and dealt with.”
The man tagged several local representatives and media outlets to highlight his concerns.
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart responded: “This is horrendous!!!! I will most certainly be speaking with Council and the police! Thank you for alerting us to it!”
DUP MLA Jonathan Buckley – who enjoyed the park himself only recently – has also promised to follow up in the same manner as the MP.
A spokesperson for Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council said: “It is completely unacceptable and deeply disappointing that Edenvilla’s Secret Garden has been subjected to a spate of destructive anti-social behaviour and break-ins, resulting in significant damage.
“This wanton destruction is senseless and has a direct impact on a valued community asset enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Council staff are working diligently to repair the damage and restore affected areas as quickly as possible, with the aim of keeping this important facility open.
“We are also working closely with relevant authorities to address these incidents and help prevent any further occurrences.”
