Hazzard Seeks End to Anti-Social Behaviour in Drumaness

South Down MLA Chris Hazzard has called for anti-social activity at a Drumaness bus shelter to end.

He said it was as “destructive and highly stressful for local residents.”

[caption id="attachment_39642" align="alignleft" width="390"]South Down MLA Chris Hazzard has called for an end to anti-social behaviour in Drumaness after a bus shelter was damaged. South Down MLA Chris Hazzard has called for an end to anti-social behaviour in Drumaness after a bus shelter was damaged.[/caption]

Following a series of complaints, the local MLA has been in contact with Translink in an effort to explore solutions to the recurring problem.

Mr Hazzard said: “I have been in touch with Translink officials this week to express my concern at the deteriorating situation and I have asked them to explore various ways in which such destructive behaviour can be prevented.

“Possible solutions include the removal of the seat, or indeed the removal of the entire bus shelter in the hope that those involved would no longer feel the need to congregate at that particular location.”

Mr Hazzard also stressed the need for those engaged in such behaviour to be mindful of their neighbours, especially those elderly residents who feel particularly vulnerable to anti-social activity. He said: “In recent years we have thankfully seen a huge reduction in anti-social activity in Drumaness, as the vast majority of young people have participated in hugely successful community safety projects.

“However we shouldn’t become complacent, and I will be meeting with the local Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership to discuss plans to engage with local residents in the months ahead.”

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