Northern Ireland

Concerns new Stranmillis bridge will increase antisocial activity

An artist's impression of the new foot and cycle bridge
An artist's impression of the new foot and cycle bridge An artist's impression of the new foot and cycle bridge

RESIDENTS worried that a new bridge will increase anti-social behaviour in south Belfast are set to voice their fears at an information session today.

The foot and cycle route across the River Lagan is part of a £4.8 million project linking Stranmillis and Annadale Embankments.

It will be situated close to the existing weir at Stranmillis, just below Belfast Boat Club.

Work on the Lagan Gateway project has resumed in recent weeks after stopping last April when the contractor went into administration.

However, residents have raised concerns about anti-social behaviour and young people crossing at the weir to meet up at a number of 'hotspots' .

They say parties and loud music in Lagan Meadows and on the opposite Annadale side have been causing problems and that a footbridge will enable "much freer movement".

One resident said: "Teenagers (quite a few drunk) are already crossing the river at the weir using the light of their phones. This is a tragedy waiting to happen."

There is also worry abut the impact on trees - a number have had to be felled - and disturbance of wildlife.

The information event is being held in Belfast Boat Club from noon until 8pm and representatives from council, PSNI and the contractor will be there to answer any questions .

The project will also include the development of a navigation lock, refurbishment of the existing weir and landscaping.

A Belfast City Council spokesperson said: “The council has been working with the PSNI and other agencies to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area over recent months."