Police have said that a security alert at playing fields used by East Belfast GAC was an "elaborate hoax".
It came after the discovery of a suspicious object on Church Road in the Castlereagh area on Tuesday morning shortly after 7am.
Lough View Integrated Primary School and nurseries Bumbles on the Hill and Young Ones were closed during the alert and police advised motorists to seek alternative routes for their journey.
Police later said that the security alert at the Henry Jones playing fields had ended and was "declared an elaborate hoax".
A PSNI spokesman said: “Shortly after 7.15am this morning, it was reported that a suspicious object had been found at playing fields in the area.
"Officers attended and Church Road was closed to road users as examinations were carried out on the object, which has now been declared an elaborate hoax.
"The object has been taken away for further forensic examination and Church Road has re-opened.
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"Two nearby schools were closed as a result of the alert which has caused huge disruption for pupils, parents and teachers alike, and I would like to thank all those affected for their patience and co-operation whilst our officers worked to ensure the safety of all."
It comes just weeks after East Belfast GAC was targetted as posts and netting were torched by arsonists.
East Belfast, one of the largest clubs in the north but still seeking a permanent home, uses the playing fields for training.
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Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey condemned those responsible for the alert.
“I am absolutely dismayed that a suspicious object has been found at Henry Jones playing fields that are used by East Belfast GAA," she said.
“This comes only days after goalposts at this field were attacked in what appears to be a concerted attempt by sinister elements to intimidate both adults and children away from playing sport in a public park.
“This has also caused major disruption for residents this morning with roads closed and a local integrated primary school forced to close.
“Disgraceful incidents like this do not represent the vast majority of people who are focused on moving forward and on the future."
SDLP councillor Séamas de Faoite said: "These continued attacks on East Belfast GAA by a small band of thugs must cease once and for all.
"Those behind the targeting of the club do not speak for or represent people in this area, the vast majority of whom have bigger things to be worrying about than what their local sports clubs get up to.
“In stark contrast to this continued intimidation, East Belfast GAA has been a wonderful addition to life in the area.
"Like many parts of our city, East Belfast is changing and the club have played a big part in that, being an inclusive, positive and proactive addition to the community."
Castlereagh Alliance councillor Michael Long condemned "the sectarian thugs" behind the security alert.
Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Long said: Another suspected device at Henry Jones and Loughview PS is again forced to close. The sectarian thugs behind this campaign need to stop. BCC pitches are for everyone. Solidarity with @EastBelfastGAA. Have asked for more security repeatedly."
He said he has asked for an urgent meeting between Belfast City Council, the PSNI and local councillors to help combat the campaign of intimidation against East Belfast GAC.
His party colleague, east Belfast councillor Peter McReynolds, said: "Those who have caused this need to reflect on their violent and disruptive ways in 2023".
More chaos and disruption at Henry Jones playing fields. A primary school and two nursery schools forced to close for local children’s safety. And for what?
— Peter McReynolds MLA (@PMcReynoldsMLA) September 5, 2023
Those who have caused this need to reflect on their violent and disruptive ways in 2023.
