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Vandals cause thousands of pounds of damage to west Belfast water plant

The scene at Poleglass water plant after vandals smashed their way in
The scene at Poleglass water plant after vandals smashed their way in The scene at Poleglass water plant after vandals smashed their way in

Vandals have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a water plant on the outskirts of west Belfast.

NI Water said that while the break-in at Poleglass service reservoir "had no impact" on customer supplies, it could have had "serious consequences".

The incident has been reported to police and an investigation into criminal damage at the site is ongoing.

Members of the Colin Safer Neighbourhood Project, who met with NI Water, said those responsible had "smashed their way into the plant" where machinery and pumps are located.

"Not only are these young people putting themselves in danger but also this area," the group said on Facebook.

"This has to be condemned and young people need to stay away from this plant and parents need to know where their children are, Also anybody caught at the plant will result in prosecution. If you know anything or who is involved get in touch. We need to resolve this asap. We will be keeping a presence in the area until this is sorted".

NI Water said such vandalism could have "serious repercussions".

A spokesman said that during the break-in, damage was caused to gates and the wall of a room containing monitoring equipment.

"It is understandable that our sites can attract the attention and interest of people, especially on a long summer evening," said a spokesman.

"However, these are not playgrounds and can be extremely dangerous for unauthorised personnel without the correct training or equipment.

"Considering that the Poleglass site is a fully functioning NI Water facility, there is scope for danger for any unauthorised personnel who do not follow correct procedures".

He added: "The public are often our eyes and ears, and we are grateful for any support given to us to combat vandalism at our sites. We would ask local community leaders and representatives to extend support to us in helping to bring such disruptive activity to an end; this isn’t just a bit of fun".