There has been widespread anger and frustration after children’s play equipment was set alight in Lurgan Park on Tuesday evening.
The act of destruction, which occurred shortly before 10pm, has prompted what are renewed calls for increased security and surveillance in one of the county’s must utilised public spaces.
Thankfully the fire was narrowly prevented from turning into a full blaze thanks to the actions of a park user and the park ranger.
“Five minutes later and it could have been much worse,” said the ranger.
Residents and members of the Friends of Lurgan Park social media page expressed outrage at the act of vandalism and are demanding a coordinated response from elected representatives to protect the park and its facilities.
“Lost for words,” said one resident. “Folks, contact your councillors and MLA and MP – it’s time they got their heads together with the police and have proper security measures installed.”
Another added: “Absolute disgrace. Cameras are going to have to be put up to find out the culprits of this vandalism. Those who do this have no respect whatsoever.”
CCTV, which would come at considerable cost, might serve as a much-needed deterrent to antisocial behaviour which has become increasingly common in the park – especially in the summer months.
“I just avoid Lurgan Park now with my grandkids because of the volume of rude teenagers, even during the afternoons,” one grandparent commented. “This is so sad.”
Others say more needs to be done to offer teenagers positive alternatives and activities to engage them, while also voicing frustration at the cost to ratepayers.
“Calls for things to do for teenagers are all well and good, but our rates are pure extortionate for the little services we get from council,” said one man. “Now we have to pay to repair or replace – in some instances – damages caused by mindless teenage thugs who think it’s brilliant to set fire to a children’s playground.”
As one witness summed up: “Thanks to all the park staff for maintaining this local gem. It would have been a disaster if it had caught – let’s not wait for that to happen.”
