Meenan Square in Bogside
The Foyle MLA was commenting after a site meeting with representatives from the Executive Office, Derry City & Strabane District Council, Department for Communities and local community organisations.
Karen Mullan said: “Derry City & Strabane District Council has agreed to deploy contractors to secure the unsafe elements of the Meenan Square site tomorrow, but this move is only a sticking plaster.
“A long-term solution is required.
“It cannot be allowed to continue lying vacant and in such a state of disrepair.
“It is a health hazard and an eyesore for the residents of the area who have to look at it on a daily basis and deal with the anti-community activity that takes place there.
“I understand the processes involved here and that they take time, but that should not delay progress being made and all bodies have a responsibility to prioritise this development.
“At the meeting, I received a progress update on contact made with the owner and the business case status to develop the site under the Urban Villages scheme.
“The Urban Villages scheme provides an opportunity to transform one of the most dangerous and damaging sites in this city into a positive community development.
“I can assure residents this will remain our priority until it is resolved,” added the Foyle MLA.
