Armagh city centre is to receive an increased police presence and more community safety wardens after a rise in anti-social behaviour over recent months. The response follows concerns raised about incidents affecting businesses, workers, shoppers and members of the public.
The assurances were given after Sinn Féin Councillor Sarah Duffy brought the issue to the Policing and Community Safety Partnership. Her concerns applied across Armagh, but she made particular reference to the EuroSpar complex at Thomas Street, where she said anti-social behaviour had become especially prevalent.
Businesses and shoppers affected
The Armagh Shopping Centre area, particularly around Thomas Street, has been highlighted as a significant concern. Reports said business owners and customers had been subjected to abuse, while several businesses across the city had reported vandalism and thefts.
The incidents have also included a threat against a vulnerable adult. Several deliberate fires were reported, with the former Foresters’ building on Market Street targeted on a number of occasions.
The reported pattern has raised fears about the effect on trade. Businesses are concerned that shoppers could be discouraged from visiting Armagh city centre because of the behaviour and the sense of insecurity it has created.
Police and community safety response
Councillor Duffy said the issue had become serious enough for her to raise it at the partnership’s latest meeting. She said the assurances received included a greater police presence in Armagh city centre, alongside an increased presence from community safety wardens.
“Members of the public, business owners and staff have been rightly concerned and frightened by this negative behaviour.”
She added that people should not feel intimidated while working, shopping or carrying out their everyday activities.
“No-one should feel intimidated simply going to work, doing their shopping or going about their daily lives.”
Councillor Duffy said the local representative would continue to raise the concerns and press for action where it was needed. The promised policing and wardens’ presence is the stated next step in response to the ongoing reports.
“Everyone deserves to go about their daily lives without fear of harassment, intimidation or harm, and we will continue to raise these concerns and push for action where it is needed,”
The developments come after multiple reports of anti-social behaviour across Armagh, with the city-centre incidents placing particular pressure on businesses and the people who use the shopping areas.
