SDLP Councillor Brian Tierney has condemned those behind an arson attack on a shed at the back of a home in the Leafair Gardens area of the city.
Cllr Tierney said that the attack is a major setback for community relations which had improved over the last number of weeks.
He said: “I was shocked to hear about an arson attack on a shed at the back of a home in Leafair Gardens early this morning.
“This kind of attack will be roundly condemned by everyone living in the area.
“A huge amount of work has taken place over the last number of weeks to defuse tensions in this area.
“Residents were beginning to get peace of mind that the anti-social behaviour which plagued their lives was coming to an end.
“That’s why we’ve had security gates installed and worked with the Housing Executive to clear an area to develop community allotments.
“This attack is a major setback and residents are now worried that their lives will once again be subject to aggressive anti-social behaviour. I will continue to work with local people and with the relevant agencies to prevent that happening.
“I would encourage anyone with any information about this disgraceful attack to get in touch with the police as soon as possible.”