Fence work is welcomed

Up to now residents had been unable to let their children out to play in case they were seriously injured.

Parents felt that a huge gap in a fence beside the River Flush was “an accident waiting to happen”.

One resident, William Beck, pointed the finger at the Rivers Agency, who carried out a cleaning operation on the stream before Christmas.

According to Mr Beck, the portion of the fence was taken down by Rivers Agency workers and was not replaced.

Speaking to the ‘MAIL’ in March he said: “It’s only a matter of time before one of the kids are badly hurt. There’s a very steep drop down to the river, so if any of the kids around here fell down it, they might not be able to get back up again.”

On Monday a much happier Mr Beck told the ‘MAIL’: “After months of phone calls and lobbying through yourselves and local MLA Sam Gardiner action has been taken.”

He said when officials arrived and carried out an inspection they had been shocked by the state of the fence.

It is currently being replaced by a metal fence. Mr Beck said: “This seems to be a proper job, a good high metal fence.

“I’d like to thank local MLA Sam Gardiner and the Lurgan Mail for their efforts in having this resolved.”

Mr Gardiner responded: “I’m happy to help, I’m here to work for the people..

“Fences such as these should be inspected more regularly. The Flush River has caused problems in the past with flooding etc. I’m happy to have able to help in this instance.”