Vandalism at NI Water site in Whitehouse poses a serious risk

02 May 2013 9:24

NI Water has raised serious concerns about a recent break in at its site at Whitehouse.   The Station, which manages all the wastewater flows for the Newtownabbey area, was broken into earlier this month.  

Parts of the surrounding fencing were damaged which left the site unsecured for a period of time, potentially exposing members of the public to serious injury.  It is estimated the repairs will cost a substantial amount.

NI Water representative, John Bell, who has been dealing with the break-in, explained:

“While such actions may be considered harmless fun, NI Water would like to stress that there are serious risks, not only to those carrying out the break-ins, but also to the public and the environment.  

“There appears to have been an attempted theft with three rolls of copper wire found abandoned at the boundary fence.  The thieves’ plan was interrupted when local residents became aware of the disturbance and notified PSNI who attended the scene before alerting NI Water staff.  The site was secured temporarily overnight by NI Water.  

“We would appeal to those involved to think about their behaviour and stop immediately.  There is also the added risk that young children could enter the Station through the vandalised fence, exposing them to serious injury.”

The cost of repairing the damage is also a factor.  This work creates a needless drain on resources that could be better used to improve services to the local community.  

NI Water needs the help and support of the whole community to protect these vital resources and is calling on those engaging in these acts to cease immediately.  

To report an incident at any NI Water site, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or Waterline on 08457 440088.