PSNI to step up patrols in St Columb’s Park in a bid to crack down on anti-social behaviour
POLICE in Derry say they are stepping up patrols in a city park to prevent anti-social behaviour over the summer months.
The move comes after concerns about a large gathering of young people in St Columb’s Park at the weekend.
Police were called to the park on Saturday to deal with a crowd of more than 100 youths.
More officers will patrol the park “during periods of good weather and key holiday dates”, police said.
Local police boss Inspector William Calderwood said: “”The patrolling of the park falls under our regular duties and park users will continue to see a police presence every weekend.
“Certainly during periods of good weather and key holiday dates, our resourcing of these patrols will increase appropriately,” he said.
Local politicians, the PSNI and Derry City and Strabane District Council met earlier this week to discuss the concerns about antisocial behaviour.
Police said their aim was not to stop anyone – including young people – from enjoying the park.
“I think it’s important to get out the message, and I know our partners will agree, that we want to encourage people to use the park,” Inspector Calderwood said.
“What no one wants to see is the experience being ruined by a minority who use the park to drink and cause hassle.”
Alcohol seized by police in Derry’s St Columbs Park from under age children last year
He added: “A big group of young people does not necessarily mean there is anything anti-social taking place but we are prepared to deal with anyone who is breaking the law.”
Last summer, the PSNI carried out a similar move following a number of sectarian incidents in and around St Columb’s Park.
