The Housing Executive today (Thursday) began removal of the so-called ‘peace wall’ on the Crumlin Road at Ardoyne, with it being replaced by decorative railings and environmental improvements.
Cllr McAllister said the move had come about following work by the Department of Justice and community representatives in the area, as well as the Housing Executive, PSNI and International Fund for Ireland, to build confidence there.
“I understand many people living close to these structures still feel fear but I also know the damage they can cause to the health of residents and economic wellbeing of the area. But residents on the Crumlin Road will now see there is nothing to feel apprehensive about.
“Creating a shared future is one of the greatest challenges facing our society. I am pleased we are tackling the problem head-on and building a Belfast in which people can live, learn, work and play together.
“Ideally the number of ‘peace walls’ in North Belfast would be zero but I know there is a lot of work to be done to get to that number. This positive move by the Justice Minister is another step along that road.”