Tackling the problems of Greenmount

Householders, councillors, police and environmental health officers attended the meeting which was held at the West Bann Centre following a leaflet drop to every household in the estate.

Neighbourhood Police Inspector, Catherine Magee, said: “We welcome the move to form a residents association in Greenmount.

“The area has recently suffered from spates of underage drinking and solvent abuse. These are issues that affect the day to day lives of local people and it is important that householders have a conduit through which they can voice their collective concerns about these and other matters.

“These are issues that affect the day to day lives of local people and it is important that householders have a conduit through which they can voice their collective concerns about these and other matters.

“We are making progress and continue to work with the community, and with traders and licensees to thwart those who engage in this type of anti-social behaviour.”

She added: “In partnership with Coleraine Borough Council we are seeking to improve the area and have already seen an environmental clean up take place at Somerset Forest during which several bags of empty beer cans and cans of solvents were removed.

“Through negotiation with landowners, and traders we are also examining ways to prevent young people from gaining access to a derelict house at Greenmount Park, which has recently become a venue for underage drinkers.”

Neighbourhood Constable, Robert Rainey, added: "I would encourage everyone from the area to get involved in the process as forming a residents association will be good for the area.

“Not only will it help to reduce crime, it is a good way for people to get to know each other and to organise events that will generate greater community spirit."

Householders who attended the meeting have agreed to progress the matter.