Old Thornhill site in Derry now ‘a death trap’ - Councillor

A Derry Councillor has warned that a derelict former college site in Derry has now become a “death trap” as she called for police to ramp up patrols.
By Brendan McDaid
Published 14th Jul 2020, 11:49 BST
Part of the listed building pictured 11 years ago back in 2009 when it was smashed to pieces at the former Thornhill College. There have been numerous similar incidents since. 1203Ap33Part of the listed building pictured 11 years ago back in 2009 when it was smashed to pieces at the former Thornhill College. There have been numerous similar incidents since. 1203Ap33
Part of the listed building pictured 11 years ago back in 2009 when it was smashed to pieces at the former Thornhill College. There have been numerous similar incidents since. 1203Ap33

SDLP Councillor for the Ballyarnett area Angela Dobbins said the site in Culmore was now in a shocking state.

The old school site - which has been the scene of repeated acts of vandalism for over a decade - has lain vacant since 2003 when the new school opened across the road.

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Planning permission has been granted to transform the site into a retirement village.

SDLP Councillor Angela DobbinsSDLP Councillor Angela Dobbins
SDLP Councillor Angela Dobbins

Colr. Dobbins said however that it is currently in a precarious state as she urged police to carry out regular patrols.

She said: “I have repeatedly highlighted that this former school site has become an area of anti-social behaviour and potentially a death trap.”

Colr. Dobbins said that following talks with the developer she has been given assurances that the site would be secured and monitored, but warned that the situation was now critical.

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“I am fearful that it’s condition will cost a life. The youths involved in this behaviour are putting their lives and the lives of their friends in extreme danger,” Colr. Dobbins said, adding:

“The roof of these derelict buildings are so unsafe and the interior is in not of sound condition. The outer grounds also are in a dreadful state with exposed manholes, a threat to life and limb.

“I would appeal to parents to ensure where their children are and what they are doing and to make them aware of these dangers and that this site is not a playground or meeting venue.”