Ulster Unionist Newtownabbey Council Group leader Cllr John Scott has commented on the meeting which he chaired yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon in Ballyduff Community Centre to resolve the concerns which had arisen regarding the size and location of the Eleventh Night Bonfire.
Councillor Scott said:
“Due to the escalating concerns of residents I had called an “all stakeholders” meeting in Ballyduff yesterday afternoon.
In my role as Ballyduff Community Development Manager I knew just how much work the bonfire committee had put into building the traditional 11th night structure and also how worried residents were for the safety of their homes due to its size and proximity to their properties.
I want to pay a personal tribute to all who helped create the solution to move the bonfire up the hill to a safe distance from all houses. This was a great example of an entire community, sitting down together and talking through an important issue and creating a local accommodation.
I have promised to chair another meeting at the end of the summer to fully explore a permanent solution as it is important that the wider Unionist community in Ballyduff can continue to celebrate our culture and heritage in a safe and dignified manner. Hopefully, with the extra help provided, the move will be completed in plenty of time for the 11thnight and the entire community will come out and join in the festivities”