The removal of security guards from a popular public square in Derry has been criticised following recent “sectarian” violence involving young people.
The PSNI has confirmed it is investigating reports of an “arranged fight” at Ebrington, a former military base in the Waterside area of the city that has been redeveloped and is now home to several businesses including a hotel and offices.
The decision to remove security services from the area, taken by the Executive Office at Stormont, has now come in for criticism from the SDLP MLA Sinead McLaughlin.
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“It is deeply worrying that the Executive Office have taken this decision to remove security from Ebrington Square,” she said.
“This site has a long and complicated history, but its regeneration is something we should all be proud of. Ebrington offers both cultural and economic opportunities and has recently seen both Alchemy and EY NI make Ebrington Plaza their new headquarters.
“I am concerned that the recent violence, which has largely involved young people, has been deemed to be sectarian in nature. We cannot allow our young people to get caught up in this and risk harming themselves or others and putting their futures at risk. The community in the surrounding area cannot be made to feel intimidated and unable to use this shared space.
“It is hard to understand why the Executive Office has taken the decision to remove security and replace it with CCTV cameras. Having robust security measures in place is the only appropriate way to secure this site.”
She added: “We must send a clear message that violence of any kind is not acceptable. I will continue to lobby the Executive Office to reverse this decision to discourge anti-social behaviour in this area and to ensure that everyone using Ebrington and living in the surrounding area can feel safe in their own community.”
A spokesperson for the PSNI said: “Police responded to two reports made from around 7.30pm on 30th December 2024 in relation to a large gathering of young people in the Waterside, in the area of Ebrington Square. In one of the calls, it was reported these youths were chasing each other. In the second call it was reported it may have been related to an arranged fight.
“Police responded, but when officers arrived in the area the youths had dispersed.”
Inspector Spence said: “We are engaging with local representatives to gain an understanding of the situation and establish what exactly occurred.
“In the meantime, our neighbourhood team will continue to engage with local people, focusing our patrols where they are needed and taking positive action where we can and we encourage the community to continue to report crimes or incidents that impact on their quality of life on 101, or 999 in an emergency.
“Anyone who engages in anti-social behaviour needs to consider the consequences of their actions and of the dangers of getting involved in this type of behaviour. Ultimately, they could end up with a criminal record which may impact their future employment and travel prospects.
“Anyone with information in relation to these reports is asked to call us on 101, quoting reference 1457 of 30/12/24.”
The Executive Office, which has overall responsibility for the development of the former Ministry of Defence site at Ebrington, has been approached for comment.
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