16/05/2025
Strathfoyle Play Park Closed Due To Significant Arson Damage
Derry City and Strabane District Council has announced the closure of Strathfoyle Play following an arson attack that resulted in significant damage to its play equipment.
The incident occurred overnight on Wednesday, 14th May, and is being treated by authorities as a deliberate act of vandalism. The damage has primarily affected the slide area of the park, rendering it unsafe for public use and prompting the Council to close off the Tower area and slide until necessary repairs can be completed.
The Council estimates the damage to be substantial and is working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to investigate the incident.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, expressed her deep concern over the attack. "I am appalled by this senseless act of vandalism. Strathfoyle Play Park is a vital community asset that provides children and families with a safe and enjoyable environment," Mayor Seenoi-Barr said. "The Council is committed to restoring the park as quickly as possible and will keep the public informed of progress."
She urged anyone with information to come forward. "I would encourage anyone with information surrounding the incident, to report it to the relevant authorities. We cannot put up with such reckless behaviour in our communities. This play park is such a valuable asset for the children and young people of Strathfoyle and the wider community, and it is such a shame that it will have to be closed over this spell of beautiful weather."
Strathfoyle Play Park is a popular destination for local families, and the closure has caused disappointment among residents. The Council has appealed to the community to report any information that could assist the investigation.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) confirmed they were called to reports of a slide on fire at the park in the Beechwood Park area and also stated that the fire had been started deliberately.
The public is reminded to report any relevant information regarding the incident by contacting Derry City and Strabane District Council at 028 71 253 253 or the Police Service of Northern Ireland directly.
The Council has expressed appreciation for the public's understanding and cooperation during this challenging time.
The incident occurred overnight on Wednesday, 14th May, and is being treated by authorities as a deliberate act of vandalism. The damage has primarily affected the slide area of the park, rendering it unsafe for public use and prompting the Council to close off the Tower area and slide until necessary repairs can be completed.
The Council estimates the damage to be substantial and is working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to investigate the incident.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, expressed her deep concern over the attack. "I am appalled by this senseless act of vandalism. Strathfoyle Play Park is a vital community asset that provides children and families with a safe and enjoyable environment," Mayor Seenoi-Barr said. "The Council is committed to restoring the park as quickly as possible and will keep the public informed of progress."
Strathfoyle Play Park is a popular destination for local families, and the closure has caused disappointment among residents. The Council has appealed to the community to report any information that could assist the investigation.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) confirmed they were called to reports of a slide on fire at the park in the Beechwood Park area and also stated that the fire had been started deliberately.
The public is reminded to report any relevant information regarding the incident by contacting Derry City and Strabane District Council at 028 71 253 253 or the Police Service of Northern Ireland directly.
The Council has expressed appreciation for the public's understanding and cooperation during this challenging time.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.