Police remain at scene of a security alert at playing fields in east Belfast

Police remain at the scene of a security alert at playing fields in the Church Road area of Castlereagh.The playing fields have been closed overnight while searches continue to be carried out in the area.

East Belfast Gaelic Athletic Association who uses the sports facilities and said they are "disheartened" by the alert.

They said local sports clubs had worked hard to revive the pitches and it is "saddened at those who threaten to disrupt the peace and cause alarm.

Lough View Integrated Primary School and Nursery said it will be closed today because of the operation.

In a statement on Tuesday afternoon, a police spokesperson said: "Motorists are advised that road closures in the Church Road area of Castlereagh have now been lifted."However, the security alert in the area is still ongoing, and there remains no access to playing fields."Members of the public are asked to continue to avoid the area. A further update will be provided in due course."

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