East Belfast GAA club "disheartened" by security alert at sports pitches
Police are at the scene
Last updated 23rd May 2023
Ammunition technical officers are currently at the scene of an ongoing security alert at sports pitches in East Belfast.
East Belfast GAA Club, which uses Henry Jones Playing Fields in Castlereagh, says it's "saddened by those who threaten to disrupt the peace".
The alert, which began yesterday, is causing disruption in the area this morning.
Lough View Integrated Primary School and Nursery has been closed as a result.
A PSNI statement said, “A security alert at playing fields in the Church Road area of Castlereagh remains ongoing this morning, Tuesday 23rd May.”
PSNI Sergeant Creelan said, “The playing fields remain closed this morning while searches are being carried out. Ammunition technical officers are currently in attendance at the scene.”
“A road closure at the junction of the Church Road and Manse Road remains in place at this time.”
“Members of the public, including motorists, are reminded to avoid the area. We will provide a further update in due course.”
Sinn Féin councillor Padráig Donnelly has said “This has caused disruption to people in the area and Lough View Integrated Primary School and Nursery has been closed as a result.
“A road closure is in place at the junction of the Church Road and Manse Road and people have been advised by police to avoid the area.
“I would urge people to avoid the area while this alert continues and follow advice from police.”
On Tuesday evening, the PSNI said the alert had ended, with nothing untoward found.
Hear the latest news on Downtown on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.