She was speaking after attending the special meeting of BCC’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee today (9 July) where the decision was agreed.
Cllr Maghie has said: “Everyone has a right to celebrate their cultural identity, and Alliance supports the display of culture when it’s done in a way which is legal, respectful and, most important of all, safe.
“To have a bonfire so close to an electric substation, particularly that which is supplying power to nearby hospitals, is dangerous and the potential risk of damage to both human life and public property is cause for great concern. In light of new information received this week from NIE relating to the level of risk posed to the power supply, it’s a chance we can’t afford to take and council must now intervene.
“We’re glad to see our proposal pass with the support of the majority of the committee, and I’d urge those opposed to consider the responsibility they have to vulnerable local residents in the area and those receiving hospital treatment.”