Major problems at local play park need addressed

Major problems at local play park need addressed

16 July 2025

A LOCAL councillor says major problems need to be addressed at a play park in Saintfield.

Rowalllane DUP councillor Callum Bowsie says the play park at New Line has been “plagued” with persistent issues, including vandalism, drug use, lack of maintenance and poor design.

He said it had been a haven for anti-social behaviour for years.

“I believe the secluded layout of the site is a big factor. Many young families have shared with me how they feel isolated using the park,” he remarked.

“I’ve made a number of proposals to open up the layout of the site. For example, the toilet block is being considered for replacement and this could be repositioned so as to not block the play park from the road.

“The toilets have had to be locked for about 2 months now due to severe vandalism and antisocial use of the facility. On a daily basis, there was evidence of drug use, extensive damage to the facility, and misuse of urinals and sinks for purposes other than their intended use.

“The council has a repair programme. Once this is complete, it will be in a position to reopen. However, it is not sustainable for the council to continue with daily repairs and the associated hygiene risk from the cleaning of the facility, and if not addressed the council will consider closing the facility.”

Cllr Bowsie continued: “Teenagers unfortunately have very few places to hang out in Saintfield and so other locations need to be made attractive and safe for them.

“The pitch is constantly gathering mud. Staff have cleaned this up on several occasions and are looking at drainage. 

“Management has accepted that this pitch is coming to the end of its life – so I am asking for an upgrade. A lot of the play park equipment is filthy and needs cleaned.”

He added: “This park has the potential to be a great facility for Saintfield, but lots of work needs to be done to address these long-standing issues.”