Park Watch scheme in place at Billy Neill MBE Country Park

September 1, 2021

Lisburn & Castlereagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) in collaboration with the local  Dundonald  Neighbourhood Policing Team and the council`s Parks & Amenities and Environmental Health Service Units have set up a new  Park Watch Scheme covering the Billy Neill MBE Country Park and nearby area. A similar scheme is in place at the Cairnshill Playing Fields, Four Winds.

Park Watch is similar to Neighbourhood Watch, with the PCSP, PSNI and council departments working together with park users and local residents to protect the parks from vandalism and anti-social behaviour and to improve safety and security.

Lisburn & Castlereagh PCSP Chairman, Councillor Michelle Guy commented, “It is important that everyone looks after our public parks, not just the PCSP, PSNI and council staff.  We want to encourage residents and park users to ‘own’ our public parks, take pride in them, look after them and protect them from vandalism and anti-social behaviour.  By doing so they will not only be improving the safety and security of the park but also the surrounding area.”

PSNI District Commander, Julie Mullan commented, “Open spaces across the District are an important resource and I welcome this initiative to enhance the guardianship of these parks.  PSNI are keen to work with Council and the local community to develop the Park Watch scheme and improve the experience for all those using and visiting our parks

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council`s Leisure & Community Development Committee Chairman, Councillor Sharon Skillen commented, “We have excellent public parks across the council area and I fully support this initiative to ensure that these facilities remain in excellent condition. As residents and users I would encourage everyone to follow the objectives of the Park Watch Scheme.”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council`s Environmental Services Chairman, Councillor Andrew Ewing commented: “As a council we want everyone to enjoy our open spaces by everyone taking their responsibilities around personal rubbish and domestic animals. By doing so, everyone can play their part in creating a pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy. I support this initiative and would encourage everyone to play their part.”

For more information on the Park Watch scheme, please contact Lisburn & Castlereagh PCSP Manager on Tel 028 9250 9279 or email pcsp@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk