St Columb’s Park treated like a dustbin by teenagers

Councillor David Ramsey said he was appalled by the behaviour and litter-louting that took place in the parkland last week.

He said concern was growing that St Columb’s Park was fast becoming a replacement party venue for teenagers ejected from other areas of the city, but particularly from Brooke Park, and called on the PSNI and council to take a firm stance against the parkland becoming a no-go area for others.

A spokesman for the council said anyone with concerns relating to the park could report them directly to Derry City and Strabane District Council by telephoning 02871 253253.

Appealing for St Columb’s Park not to develop the same issues that formerly plagued Brook Park, Mr Ramsey said: “The good weather arrives and once again revellers descend on one of our major assets in the Waterside and party without respect for residents and others visiting the park.

“On Wednesday night and again on Thursday, I was appalled to see the parkland was treated like a dustbin by teenagers. On Thursday wardens were threatened when they tried to intervene to stop teenage drinking and although the PSNI were contacted, they failed to appear.

“After witnessing the mess on Thursday and Friday mornings with Derek Moore from St Columb’s Park House all I can say is that we were disgusted at the way the park is being treated and want to commend the Council staff for the prompt way they have dealt with the issue and cleared the park,” he said.

Mr Ramsey said he was advised by police that they had confiscated alcohol and moved on a group at around 6pm on Wednesday.

“Later in the evening the police returned, to be met by over 100 young people, who threw bottles and cans at them. After calling for back-up they had to leave the area to deal with another incident in Creggan. On Thursday evening I understand there was no police presence.

“I now call for regular neighbourhood police patrols to deter these types of gathering from becoming uncontrollable. I commend the wardens for their attempt to protect the park”.

A spokesperson said the council was aware of issues relating to the park.

“The park has seen a substantial increase in visitor numbers due to both the good weather and the visiting funfair based at Ebrington Square.

“St Columb’s Park is an important public and community space and every effort is made to ensure it is a safe and family friendly space. The council will continue to work with the PSNI.”