Residents in Derry have spoken of their 'worst nightmare' after claims that unfinished homes in Derry have become a site for anti-social behaviour.
Locals who live in the Dunfield Terrace area of the city say they have reached a 'breaking point' having to live in fear every day.
They say the site has become a hub for young people to gather and cause anti-social behaviour.
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When this publication visited the site last week, a number of residents spoke of their 'continuing nightmare' of having to deal with 'large scale anti-social behaviour'.
The problem has been going on for the last three years when construction stopped on the development of terrace homes.
Residents said that the development was given planning permission by the previous body that held power for planning in Northern Ireland, the Department of Environment.
Speaking to MyDerry, Felicity McCaul, who is a local resident, said that the people of the area didn't want the development to begin with.
"The residents have always opposed this development," Felicity said.
"Construction stopped completely three years ago and since then it has become a target for vandals and gatherings of anti-social behaviour.
"Every night of the week young people are gathering here. The police are regular visitors and I think they were actually here five times in one night at one stage.
"We've had the fire authority down when there was an attempt to set fire to the houses, we had ambulances here as well. This goes on persistently."
Meanwhile, the PSNI said they have been working closely with key stakeholders in relation to community concerns at the Dunfield Terrace area.
Inspector Spence said: “We are aware of issues in the area and have dealt with incidents such as anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and reports of concern for safety.
“Our officers will continue to maintain a visible policing presence in the area, to help tackle issues of concern for the local community. We welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss with partner agencies in working together to keep the local community safe."
Frances Crumlish, who has been a resident for 38-years and has raised her family there, said the view, landscape and reputation of the area had been destroyed.
"The site itself used to be very beautiful," she said. "There were summer seats on it for residents or locals who wanted to see the city side of the city from a view.
"At Halloween, you wouldn't have got parked in the street and it was great because everyone could gather and watch the firework display.
"That has all been destroyed now and it's heartbreaking for the residents because we never wanted this in our area.
"It used to be a tourist hotspot and now you're embarrassed when people see it. It's ruining our lives.
"And now it's a hotbed for anti-social behaviour. I actually sat in my car one night and had to sit there until they went into the site because I was afraid they would spot me. If I called the police they would know that I had seen them and I was too afraid to let that happen.
"We want it demolished because it's a complete eyesore.
A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council said discussions to resolve issues occurring at the site remain 'ongoing'.
They said: "An enforcement notice was served on the property owners regarding the ongoing issues at the derelict site in Dunfield Terrace to ensure the site was made secure and that some works have been completed to secure the boundary of the site and buildings.
"Council officers have been engaging with the owners, the Dunfield Residents Association, elected members and stakeholders, and those discussions are ongoing.
"Council community safety wardens have also been monitoring the area and working with the PSNI regarding issues of anti-social behaviour.
"We would urge parents to please warn children of the dangers of accessing derelict buildings and to encourage them not to engage in activity that will put the lives of themselves and others at risk."
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