SDLP Councillor for Foyleside Shauna Cusack has spoken of her concern at hearing that crowds of youths are gaining access and gathering in the former Foyle College site on Northland Road.
Said Cllr Cusack: “I was informed by nearby residents that they had witnessed crowds of youths gathering over the Bank holiday Monday and again the following evening.
“One lady explained how she witnessed what she believed to be an arranged fight. Fires had also been lit in the area.
“This is very concerning and the last thing anyone wants is a return to the situation experienced last year which resulted in the predicted arson on the old school building.
“While I worked hard to have the area monitored and the building demolished, this now large open site is very attractive to those wanting to congregate and cause bother.
“The land is the responsibility of the Department for Education and to be the location of the new Ardnashee school, which is experiencing planning delays.
“The Department has stated that the work will potentially not commence until late 2020.
“l will be calling on them to intervene to provide security should this issue continue and meanwhile I have asked the neighbourhood policing team and Council’s Safety Wardens to monitor the area.
“I would also ask anyone who sees any suspicious activity to contact the PSNI or Wardens immediately.”
