DUP MLA William Humphrey has condemned those behind vandalism at Woodvale Park

A DUP politician has described vandalism at a recently re-opened play park as “disgusting”.

North Belfast DUP MLA Alderman William Humphrey said the vandalism happened last weekend at Woodvale Park which underwent a £2 million makeover.

A rotating play see-saw was vandalised and had to be removed for the safety of children.

Graffiti was sprayed on soft surfaces, concrete ground and pillars and a number of plants were deliberately uprooted.

“As a local representative who campaigned to bring about the recent £2million refurbishment of Woodvale Park, I am disgusted to hear of the vandalism which occurred last weekend,” said William Humphrey, who chairs the Woodvale Park Steering Group, said.

“Local people are outraged that the park has been needlessly damaged less than two week after its official re-opening.

“One item of play equipment was damaged and has had to be removed.

“Graffiti was scrawled on soft surface and on concrete ground and pillars and a number of plants were deliberately uprooted.

“Those responsible should be ashamed of themselves. This is the people’s park and no-one should vandalise this valued public amenity. This sort of senseless destruction will not be tolerated.”

He said he and party colleagues with the Belfast City Council Director of Parks on Thursday morning to express their horror at the vandalism.

“We would urge anyone who knows who was responsible for this criminal damage to pass that information on to the police.

“My party colleagues and I are committed to ensuring that the improvements at Woodvale Park – the new playground equipment, new toddlers play area, outdoor exercise gym, the 7-a-side games area, two full-size football pitches, the community gardens and other features – can be enjoyed and appreciated by the community for many years to come.”