A site for the Travelling community in Derry which was recently refurbished is now lying empty again after continued vandalism, it has emerged.
The Daisyfield site on the Letterkenny Road underwent extensive refurbishment last year, which were completed in April 2017.
The site is owned by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE).
Following completion of the work, the site was occupied throughout the summer from July to September.
However, the Derry News has now learned that the Daisyfield has lain empty since September of last year, and that there are ongoing issues with vandalism at the site.
It was revealed in March of last year an investigation was being carried out by the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (the Commission) into Travellers accommodation in the north.
A meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee was told that Chief Commissioner of the body had stated that research had shown that a quarter of Travellers residing in Northern Ireland have reported their place of residence to be ‘unhealthy or very unhealthy, and many have also concerns about safety.’
The research showed that a ‘lack of footpaths, public lighting, fire hydrants, play areas, plumbing, washing facilities, electricity and refuse management’ were some of the issues highlighted.
The meeting also heard that a Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) needs assessment ‘also outlined the need for appropriate accommodation for Travellers’.
In a statement issued to the Derry News earlier this week, a spokesperson for the NIHE said that a review was underway into the Daisyfield site.
“The traveller site at Daisyfield is owned by the Housing Executive, and refurbishments were completed in April 2017,” the spokesperson said.
“The site was occupied from July to September 2017, but has been vacant since then.
“There have been ongoing issues with vandalism and we are currently reviewing the situation."
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council said that a site licence is currently being processed for the site.
Serviced sites have licence conditions broadly similar to those of secure tenants in terms of repair/maintenance and general conditions.
“Council are in receipt of an application from the NIHE for a Caravan site licence at the Daisyfield Traveller site,” the spokesperson said.
“The Council is currently liaising with the NIHE on this application and will process the licence application in accordance with The Caravans Act (NI) September 2011.
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