Police investigating ‘sectarian and racist’ graffiti in Rathcoole

The slogans ‘no refugees’ and ‘no taigs’ were painted on walls at the new Apex Housing Association development at the former Newtownabbey Community High site over recent days.

Urging anyone with information to contact officers, Sergeant Young said: “We’re treating these reports as hate crimes. There’s no place in our society for this type of behaviour and I’d ask anyone with any information to contact police on 101, quoting 1504 of 08/03/24.

"Alternatively, you can report online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800555111.”

Antrim and Newtownabbey Council’s Planning Committee approved plans in March 2022 for 111 properties with public open space, children’s play park, landscaping, car parking and access from Rathcoole Drive at the location of the former school.

Responding to this newspaper, a spokesperson for Apex Housing Association said: “Hopefield Avenue will provide 111 new homes including 76 houses and 35 apartments. Four of these will be sold as affordable homes, with the remainder delivering much-needed quality social housing in the area.

"The keys to the first of the homes will be handed over to tenants in the coming months, with all homes expected to be completed by the end of 2024.

"The social housing will be allocated in phases, in accordance with the rules of the Common Selection Scheme. Anyone wishing to be considered for these new homes, should contact their assessing landlord to ensure their details and circumstances are up-to-date and that they are on the correct waiting list.”