Arson attack on NI Water service reservoir causes dangerous damage

An arson attack has caused serious damage at Ballywonard Service Reservoir in Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland.

NI Water said it would take extensive work to fix an outbuilding and chlorine sampling equipment damaged in the fire.

The company appealed to the public to help prevent vandalism, which it said “creates a needless drain on resources”.

Darren Rock, who dealt with the aftermath of the break-in, said: “While such actions may be considered harmless fun or a victimless crime, NI Water would like to stress that there are serious risks, not only to those carrying out the break-in, but also to the public and the environment.

“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 site, exposing them to serious injury.”