Anti-social trouble plans to be unveiled

Anti-social trouble plans to be unveiled

15 August 2012

SIX month anti-social behaviour action plans are to be rolled out in Drumaness and in the Meadowlands and Ballymote areas of Downpatrick.

The Policing and Community Partnership programme will concentrate its efforts in Drumaness, with smaller interventions planned for Downpatrick.

The decision follows the ringfencing of £10,000 in June by the PCSP to fund a local strategy on dealing with the effects of anti-social behaviour.

At a meeting of the PCSP last Tuesday, Partnership manager, Janine Hillen, said: “Anti-social behaviour is consistently top priority for communities when surveyed about their local concerns. A substantial amount of time and resources of our key statutory agencies is taken up dealing with anti-social behaviour issues.

“In the NI Policing Board Omnibus Survey 2010, 82 per cent of respondents rated anti-social behaviour as within their five biggest concerns. PSNI senior officers estimate that up to 40 per cent of officer time is spent dealing with anti-social behaviour.”

Ms. Hillen indicated the smaller scale projects would be worked out in conjunction with local community groups, and it is expected following a process of consultation that implementation of the plans will begin in September.

Among the proposed actions are patrols to address illegal drinking, graffiti and litter, a review of alleyways, lighting and dangerous materials, the removal of shrubbery and a safety projects aiming to engage parents and children.

In the Meadowlands Estate and Ballymote areas a number of activities are planned, including a three day outdoor pursuits programme.

The programme will include a community day, which would incorporate demonstrations by the Fire Service, sports events, music and bouncy castles. There will also be an opportunity for residents from both estates to visit nearby family attractions.