Action taken on Gilford anti-social behaviour

DUP MLA Sydney Anderson said: “As a result of complaints I received from local residents I recently convened a meeting with some of the affected parties, the PSNI and Gilford Concerned Residents Group. Following our discussions the PSNI took a proactive approach and a number of the problems that existed have been resolved.

“I am also aware that after our initial meeting the residents group have engaged with the PSNI and the local PCSP with a view to ensuring greater accessibility to police and increased community engagement. The PSNI also agreed to look at a number of operational matters going forward. Additionally, representatives from the PCSP recently attended the Kindred Spirits Over 50s Club to advise residents on home security, with timer switches also being handed out.

“I welcome that as part of the ongoing effort to deal with anti-social behaviour and burglaries in the Gilford area, GCRG have agreed to again meet with the police and the PCSP to see if some form of enhanced neighbourhood watch scheme might be put in place in the near future. I would continue to urge the people of Gilford to be vigilant and engage with the statutory authorities around these issues when required.”

A spokesperson for the Gilford Concerned Residents’ Group said: “We would like to place on record our thanks to Sydney Anderson MLA for facilitating the initial meeting on anti-social behaviour problems in the village. We also commend the PSNI and the PCSP for their efforts in moving the situation forward and helping to resolve some of the present issues.”