Cameras and fencing removed from controversial Greencastle site

SECURITY cameras and fencing erected at the so-called ‘Greencastle People’s Office’ last month have now been removed.

The measures were put in place in August by Dalradian Gold, the North American mining company behind controversial plans to open a goldmine in the area.

They were erected just days before a long-planned community gathering at the roadside site near Greencastle, which has been continuously occupied for the past eight years by protesters opposed to the proposed goldmine.

Campaign group Communities Against Mining (CAM) criticised the sudden appearance of what they described as a ‘large CCTV tower’ overlooking the Green Road.

Members expressed concern that local families, who use the road daily for recreation and mental wellbeing, were being ‘monitored’ by the mining company.

“People want to know why they are being watched by Dalradian,” a CAM spokesperson said.

In response, Dalradian insisted the security measures were temporary and designed solely to protect its land and ensure public safety.

“As per any homeowner, landowner or business, the company sought to ensure the protection of its land, and the safety of all individuals concerned,” a spokesperson said.

“These steps taken by Dalradian to secure the company’s land at Greencastle were temporary and have since been removed.”

The company also claimed incidents of trespassing and interference with its security systems had been reported to the PSNI.

Dalradian added that it had written to the organisers of the August 23 community event, advising them that no permission was granted to access the land or hold public gatherings. Despite this, the event went ahead as planned.

Since 2018, the Greencastle site has hosted regular meetings and community events organised by opponents of the mine, who describe the area as an important space for local engagement.