A little bit of effort here could reap fantastic results for Bone park – Margaret McClenaghan

North Belfast Sinn Féin elected representative Margaret McClenaghan said councillors are hoping a design out crime audit at one of the area's oldest parks could be the answer to anti-social behaviour at the site.
Parts of Marrowbone Park have become a no go over the years because of a few anti-social hotspots.
Although the park is still well-used in the main by dog-walkers and other locals, North Belfast families have been put off visiting the park because of gangs gathering in and around secluded points.
North Belfast Sinn Féin councillor Margaret McClenaghan said that although the park improvements will include additional lighting and secure fencing, if adequate funding is secured, the real problems lie in the design of the park.
Without digging into the famous mounds of the 'Bone Hills and rectifying the general layout, according to Margaret, there will be no success story for parks officers.
“I have been going to the 'Bone Park for more than 40 years and fortunately that allows me to see exactly what needs fixing here,” said Margaret.
“This is something I brought up last year and I am pleased action is finally being taken here.
“I know there is a tight budget but this was a beautiful family park and could be again if everyone takes some action.
“Walking around the park reminded me just how much potential the place has but it will take careful planning.
“The mounds in the park block visibility too much so they need to be dug away and there are several other hiding places that need to be dealt with.
“If hedges were trimmed and thinned it would make the park much safer and less threatening and then nice shrubs and a good clean up would really tidy the whole park.
“Once the park is made secure and the whole issue around access is addressed, it will be much safer and much more enjoyable for users.
“A little bit of effort here could reap fantastic results.”
As a priority, Margaret said she would like to see extra railings erected alongside the pathway known as 'The Bray' and along the front of the Oldpark Road.
If that was secured, the republican activist said she would next look to additional lighting throughout the park which she is confident would discourage anti-social behaviour.