Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has condemned a further incident of vandalism at Cairnshill Playing Fields after goalposts were damaged overnight, marking the third reported incident of anti-social behaviour at the site in recent days.
The damage has resulted in the loss of equipment used regularly by local children, families and sports clubs and will require replacement goalposts to be ordered.
Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Higginson, said "I am deeply disappointed to learn of yet another incident of anti-social behaviour at Cairnshill Playing Fields.
"These facilities are valued community assets that provide opportunities for local children, young people and families to enjoy sport and recreation in a safe environment. Damage of this kind has a direct impact on those who use these facilities every day and creates unnecessary costs for the community.
"I would encourage anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity or who has information relating to these incidents to contact the PSNI. We all have a role to play in looking after our shared spaces and ensuring they remain available for everyone to enjoy."
The Council has continued to increase its focus on the Cairnshill area through a range of community safety and youth engagement initiatives, including work delivered through its Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and DREAM Scheme programmes. These initiatives aim to provide positive opportunities for young people, support local communities and help address anti-social behaviour.
The damage is currently being assessed and arrangements are being made to replace the goalposts as quickly as possible.
Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to contact the PSNI.