Youths targetted in Riverside Walk clampdown

However in recent months this peace and tranquillity is being disturbed by young people who are congregating and drinking illegally by the river side.

This anti social behaviour is causing considerable distress to residents living by the banks of the river, who are being disturbed by the noise and also to the general public who are feeling intimidated by the crowd of people gathering.

They are having to pick their way through the rubbish and broken glass that is left in the aftermath of the drinking session.

In order to tackle the issue, local Councillors have met with key agencies to agree a strategy for cleaning up the area and putting a stop to this anti social behaviour.

Councillor Joan Baird commented: “It is a shame and disgrace that these young people are congregating and causing such annoyance to the public and local residents. "People with young children, pushing prams and dog walkers are having to navigate a path which has been littered with broken glass and cans."

The PSNI are paying particular attention to the area with regular evening time patrols being carried out, particularly at peak times when the anti social behaviour is occurring.

Local Inspector Jacqui Gillespie highlighted, “In order to successfully tackle this issue we need the support of the public to help with reporting when incidents occur and if possible to provide statements in relation to the identity of those involved.

"Officers are patrolling the area and have already spoken to a number of young people in relation to their actions. We will continue to monitor the situation and work with other key agencies to put a stop to this behaviour."

The Council is also taking practical steps in relation to cleaning up the area. Riverside Walk is now cleaned on a Monday morning to ensure that the area is as clean as possible and the debris from the weekend is removed.

In addition, a decision has been made to remove one of the seating areas in River Side Walk as this is providing one of the key gathering points for those who are involved in anti social behaviour.

Catriona Regan, Director of Community and Enterprise, for the Council, stated, “This may prove an unpopular decision, however we felt this action needed to be taken as the bench is where people are sitting to drink. Once the anti social behaviour has ceased, then we will look at replacing the bench.

"We have also looked at the issue of bins in the area, however these have been set fire to on a number of occasions. The area is a designated no drinking zone, which means that if anyone is caught drinking here, they are committing an offence and are liable for prosecution.”

Community Safety Wardens also patrol the area during their day time patrols. Aengus Hannaway, Chair of the Community Safety Partnership added, “Through a pro-active joined up approach, we hope to target this area together and make a real difference for those living close to and who wish to use the River Walk in a responsible manner."