VANDALISM at a site in Poleglass where 46 new homes are being built has been condemned by the developer and local elected representatives.
The new homes are being built beside the Church of the Nativity on the Bell Steele Road. In recent weeks substantial damage has been caused to a number of diggers on the site, with building material also burnt. A fire was also started at the back of the Church.
The work is being carried out by Co Tyrone-based developer Newpark Homes.
Basil O'Malley from Newpark Homes said the damage has come at substantial extra costs.
"We started work on site in July. Since then we have four diggers damaged. Two weeks ago there were more diggers damaged. It has come at a real cost.
"We also had fencing and pipework stored at the back of the site set on fire which was up to £50,000 of damage.
"We have now had to put on security at the site. It is a substantial cost with the damage and security.
"We are surprised by the amount of loss. We want to build these homes for the benefit of the local community.
"If this continues it will only set the project back. Everyone at the site is working hard and they should be allowed to continue."
West Belfast MP Paul Maskey and local MLA Danny Baker condemned the vandalism and urged parents to speak to their children.
"There have been a number of incidents at the site. This is a big investment of 46 family homes, families who are waiting to move in here," said Paul.
"The damage that is being caused is unacceptable and should not be happening. We are urging parents to speak to their children and urge them to please stay away from the site.
"The chapel is a sacred place and the homes are of huge importance to the community," added Danny.
Fr Nideesh Varghese from Church of the Nativity added: "Unfortunately the church was part of the vandalism. We had some slates damaged and then there was a big fire at the back of the church and thankfully it was spotted quickly.
"Thankfully there was no damage. Hopefully things will settle down.
"We respect the local community and the builders and are working to ensure the chapel remains open and safe access ensured for our parishioners through the building work."
