McKinty: "Craigyhill flats saga must end"

Larne Deputy Mayor Mark McKinty has again called for the demolition of derelict blocks of flats in Craigyhill "as a matter of urgency".

Following a number of arson incidents in the past week, the Ulster Unionist Councillor voiced his concerns: "Yet again the derelict flats in Craigyhill have been the target of more vandalism and arson over the past week. This has been a regular occurrence now for a number of years - the Craigyhill flats saga must end before someone is seriously injured."

North-East area manager for the NI Housing Executive Frank O’Connor confirmed to Larne Council on 3 May 2012 that the flats would be demolished “at the earliest opportunity”, stating that some electrical and gas works onsite were needed before progress could be made.

However, Cllr. McKinty has been in touch with NIHE to pursue the case with representatives. "We are now in July and the problem is ongoing. NIHE need to make this project a top priority not only to ensure the safety of residents, but also to remove the eyesore and hindrance of these flats for the locals who have suffered enough," he said. "What happens with the land after demolition is a matter still to be discussed, but the imminent priority for now is the removal of risk and danger from our community as a matter of urgency".