Northern Ireland

Interface gates shut in west Belfast following reports of youths gathering

Police urged people to avoid the interface at Lanark Way in west Belfast following reports of groups of youths gathering in the area.
Police urged people to avoid the interface at Lanark Way in west Belfast following reports of groups of youths gathering in the area. Police urged people to avoid the interface at Lanark Way in west Belfast following reports of groups of youths gathering in the area.

GATES at a peace wall in west Belfast has been shut following disturbances involving "groups of youths".

Police advised motorists and the public to avoid the area after the interface gate at Lanark Way between the Shankill Road and Springfield Road was closed shortly before 7pm.

There were reports of youths throwing stones in the area, following groups of young people on both sides of the interface throwing missiles the previous evening.

The area has been the scene of serious public disorder, including rioting, in recent years.

During Wednesday night's disorder, it was reported that a PSNI officer was struck on the shin by a stone thrown by one of the youths, and police later thanked community workers for intervening and restoring calm in the area.

A spokesperson for the Falls Residents Association said on Thursday following reports of crowds gathering: "We ask parents and carers to check in with their kids to see where they are and ensure they aren't putting themselves at any unnecessary risk or harm."

The Greater Shankill ACT Initiative group also urged parents to ask their children "to stay away from the area".