Councillor airs concerns about dilapidated and dangerous building in Bangor

A Bangor councillor is warning the public about a deserted residential building in the city posing a risk to the public.

Alliance Councillor for Bangor Central Chris McCracken has raised concerns about an abandoned house in Glenburn Park, Bangor, which has been subject to ongoing anti-social behaviour. There have been several reported incidents at the semi-detached property recently, including arson.

Councillor McCracken said the derelict building was "putting the safety of the surrounding neighbours at risk".

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He said: "I am concerned at the repeated instances of anti-social behaviour within the area of this property, which is by no means a unique case. This behaviour is dangerous to individuals who participate in it but also to those living nearby, and I would urge those involved to have more sense.

“Abandoned buildings may not be structurally sound. There have been multiple instances where fires have been lit, causing a huge danger to local people and homes in the process. I have contacted the Housing Executive to secure the property, but it is clear that more is needed to protect the neighbourhood.”

Minister for the Stormont Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir, a former councillor at Ards and North Down Borough Council, has said he is "committed" to progressing a dilapidation bill that will allow council to better tackle abandoned buildings.

Councillor McCracken said: "Further powers are needed by local councils and I welcome that Minister Muir is taking decisive action and will be taking forward legislation as a priority.

“We cannot continue to allow these dangerous properties to remain vacant at a risk to the public. Nor can we afford housing going to waste, empty units in our high streets or our built heritage to be left in ruin.”

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