'We do not feel safe any longer'

The concern was raised after numerous reports of vandalism and anti-social behaviour had been received by police regarding a vacant property at 14 Queen Street.

According to both residents and police, youths were frequently using the property as a drinking den and causing annoyance resulting in the property being set on fire and police riot shields being used to arrest six people.

The issue was raised by DPP member Mr Joe Donaghy who was speaking on behalf of a number of Queen Street residents.

Mr Donaghy said: "14 Queen Street is an empty derelict property where youths hangout and cause a nuisance.

"The police are well aware of the situation and only recently had to go along with riot shields. The trouble is causing a great deal of concern to residents, especially at number 12. He feels he has a right to live there without annoyance.

"I understand that police have taken some action in the past but this has not resolved the problem. I would appeal for more help and ask what is being done to remove the problem?"

In response Area Commander John Magill said he 'sympathized' with all the Queen Street residents however explained that the problem was 'out of police hands'.

"No one should be living in their home in fear and I understand everyone's concern. This property is being used as a drunken den, has been vandalised and even set on fire. However there is a limit to what the police can do with vacant and derelict properties. Most of the problem lies with the owner of the property and the Environmental Health - it is out of our hands," the police chief explained.

"We can only respond to the crimes committed, try to prevent them and bring the perpetrators before the court. There was an incident where riot shields were used on a mob in the area and six people were arrested. All we can do is ask the public to speak to police, we need support and more information.

"However on a personal level I would not like it and I don't expect other people to put up with it."

Having listened to the debate from the public gallery Peter Pollock from 12 Queen Street also hit out at the lack of 'two-way communication' and information from officers.

"I have lived in the borough all my life, however I do not feel safe living in Ballymoney any longer. My concern is not only the annoyance and vandalism but also the lack of two-way communication from the police," he continued.

"I have reported numerous incidents, visited the station and had a meeting only last week with local officers and I still do not know what is going on. No one ever gets back to me to update me on information and action being taken.

"I have lived with this for quite a while now and I'm getting no where. I feel the only way forward is to speak up and get this addressed. Officers need to involve me, it's a two-way street.

"The whole thing is very stressful and all my family and I just want is to live in peace."

Cllr John Finlay confirmed he had 'taken the issue up with the Environmental Health' adding: "The whole thing is a disgrace."

Sgt David Moore then outlined that he 'thought issues had been dealt with and communication had been made to resolve the matter'.

However confirming that 'more police communication' was required, Inspector David Anderson said: "We will get in touch with you to discuss the matter further either after this meeting or sometime this week. We have been patrolling the area more, especially during the evenings, and have been in touch with the owner of the property.

"I believe there have been no reports of improper conduct since the meeting last Thursday and I really hope this is the end of the problem."

Reiterating his concerns for the residents of Queen Street Cllr Ian Stevenson added: "I am concerned that this issue has been dragging on far to long and it needs to be resolved soon. This gentleman and Queen Street residents should be able to live in peace."