Repairs to a fire‑damaged play park in Mullaghbawn are expected to take several weeks, with council staff now assessing the site and police treating the incident as arson.
Conway Play Park – which was only recently upgraded – suffered damage over the Hallowe’en weekend after a fire was started in the play area. Video of youths causing damage to equipment in the park later circulated online.
Sinn Féin councillor Áine Quinn said she has been in contact with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council officers and confirmed a repair plan is in motion.
“Grounds Maintenance will assess the damage, remove damaged equipment and ensure the area is made safe,” she explained.
“Replacement parts will be ordered and the damaged safety surfacing replaced. The estimated timeframe for delivery of replacement parts is 4–6 weeks.”
Cllr Quinn said the incident had also been reported to the PSNI, who are “progressing the matter”, and that she would continue to liaise with officers in the coming days and weeks.
“It is extremely disappointing to see this type of antisocial behaviour, particularly in a play park that has only recently been upgraded for local children and families,” she said.
“Thankfully, local residents acted quickly to extinguish the fire and prevent further damage.
“Antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated in our community. These facilities are there for everyone to enjoy, and it is unacceptable that the actions of a few result in damage to facilities used by local families.
“I will continue to engage with Council officials to ensure repairs are progressed as quickly as possible and the park is fully restored.”
Police in Newry have also launched an appeal for information, confirming they received a report on Sunday, November 1, that a video was circulating online of youths causing damage to Conway Park play area and equipment.
It is believed the damage occurred sometime on the afternoon of Saturday, October 31.
Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances, and the incident is currently being treated as arson.
Officers are asking anyone who was in the area on Saturday and noticed any suspicious activity, or who may have relevant footage, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1160 of 01/11/26, or submit a report online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/
