VANDALISM and anti-social behaviour, including reports that people have been climbing the scaffolding currently surrounding Cole's Monument, have resulted in more robust security measures at Forthill Park, Enniskillen, The Impartial Reporter understands.

One eyewitness claims to have seen people at the top of Cole's Monument at around 9pm one night, while other sources have also reported that people – i.e., those with antisocial intent – had been seen climbing the scaffolding.

In response to this newspaper's query regarding such reports, and the understanding that additional security measures had been put in place because of this, a spokesman for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council said: "To enable the current conservation and restoration project, Forthill Park is currently under the control of the contractor, which has put in place appropriate and extensive security measures to ensure site safety and to prevent anti-social behaviour."

The Chairman of the Council, Councillor Errol Thompson, said:"As the owners of Forthill Park, the Council will take a zero-tolerance approach to trespass, vandalism and any anti-social behaviour on the site, or indeed, across the Council estate.

"Any wilful damage to Council property is reported to the PSNI and the Council actively pursues prosecution.

"I would ask that anyone with information on this criminal and antisocial activity at Forthill Park, or indeed at any Council location, to contact the PSNI."

A spokeswoman for the PSNI said that police are aware of concerns regarding recent antisocial activity in the Forthill Park area of Enniskillen.

Enniskillen Neighbourhood Inspector Scott Fallis said: “While our parks and green spaces have always been important, they have had even greater significance over the past year, where people can enjoy a well-maintained open space.

“Unfortunately, there have been recent reports of antisocial behaviour and criminal damage at one of Enniskillen’s most iconic parks – Forthill Park and Cole's Monument.

“Those who engage in such behaviour have little regard to those individuals and families who use this park on a regular basis.

“My officers will continue to conduct patrols in the area to deter this kind of activity, and would encourage anyone with concerns to call us on the non-emergency number, 101.

“A report can also be made using the online reporting form, at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport."