New security fencing goes up in Glenvarna estate

The fencing has been erected by the Housing Executive at Glenvarna Walk in an area where police officers have regularly had to responded to reports of drinking, drug taking and anti-social behaviour.

The move comes after a series of inter-agency meetings, consultation and a two-year wait.

Alderman Blair explained: “I first met with residents, the agencies responsible for the laneway and the PSNI in April 2012 and was relieved that NIHE and DRD both agreed to commence an abandonment process for the laneway. Unfortunately the NIHE abandonment took longer than expected.”

The Alliance representative added: “The fencing offers residents some peace of mind and a better living environment after years of anti-social activity at this site.

“I would commend residents for their patience and their efforts to maintain the good name and reputation of their area. I am very grateful to them for their assistance in solving this problem and I should also record my thanks to our local NIHE management, DRD and local Neighbourhood Policing officers.”

One local resident contacted the Times praising Mr Blair for “getting the job done”, revealing that householders living beside the laneway have been trying for the past eight years to get it closed off.