Demolition D-Day
Two Galliagh properties that have been a hotbed of anti-social activity for a year and a half are to be demolished this week.
By Ursula Duddy
Last Thursday, Derry News reported how Fergleen Park residents had demanded the demolition of two empty properties that had been attracting gangs of youths that were terrorising the community.
The properties were owned by two organisations, North West Housing Association and the Housing Executive; however, the house owned by the Housing Executive has now been transferred to North West Housing Association.
Director of Property Services for North West Housing Association, Kevin Butler contacted Derry News with news of a prompt resolution.
“The properties, 44 and 45 Fergleen Park, have been secured and the debris that was witnessed there has been completely cleared,” he said.
Mr Butler also said that Estate Services have been deployed in the area for security purposes to deter the anti-social behaviour that has been plaguing the area and that water and electricity services to the properties have been disconnected.
He also confirmed that the houses would be demolished: “I have spoken to senior management and lodged a request for priority demolition of the two properties. We have secured a contractor and are waiting on the DSD waiver to proceed.”
Local Sinn Féin Councillor, Tony Hassan welcomed the move: “ I have been involved with North West Housing for the last three months to get these houses demolished.
“Hopefully they should be gone by the middle of the week.”
Cllr Hassan also spoke about proposed development plans for the area, which he believes will cut down on unsociable activity.
“North and West Housing will be carrying out a survey with the people in the Fergleen area as they have plans to build houses and bungalows that will get rid of the alleyways. There are also plans to build at the front of Fergleen which has also been a spot for trouble,” he said.
“Hopefully the planning authorities will approve these proposals, although it may take up to a year, because it is these alleys and gable walls that have been the gathering places for youths creating trouble for the last 30 years.”
