The former site of St Brigid’s High School in Armagh has been vandalised again.
Police are appealing for information following reports of a burglary at the old building on Windmill Hill on Wednesday evening (June 19).
Images of this week’s vandalism were shared on social media by Armagh Parish, who said: “More reckless damage inflicted on St Brigid’s school – a reminder that as St Malachy’s school will move into it , this damage is a real cost to our community. Please be vigilant about your parish and community buildings.”
A spokesperson for the PSNI said: “Officers attended the Windmill Hill site within three minutes of the initial report and found significant damage to the old building. This damage, some of which could have occurred previously, included broken windows and furniture. More recent damage was noted to the canteen and bathroom area.”
The old school will soon be taken over by St Malachy’s Primary School who are moving to the site amid the construction of their new school building.
While concerns have been raised surrounding the continuing dereliction of the site, there have been assurances that the building will be made ‘fit for purpose’ in advance of the primary school moving in.
A spokesperson for St Malachy’s Primary School said recently that in advance of the move, “temporary relocation works will be undertaken on the former St Brigid’s High School site to create a fit for purpose facility for the primary school”.
Related: Planning permission granted for new-build St Malachy’s Primary School in Armagh
Social media videos have recently emerged of young people trespassing in the premises, with poor conditions and vandalism noted inside.
A past pupil of the former St Brigid’s High School recently contacted Armagh I to hit out at inaction over the ‘continuing decay’ and vandalism at the old building, saying it was, “very disappointing to see such a large building in such a sad state of disrepair”.
The police spokesperson continued: “An investigation is ongoing and anyone who noticed any suspicious behaviour in the area at around 6.20pm is asked to contact police on 101 quoting 1413 19/06/24 or report online.
“Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.“
