Community Safety Update

We were all shocked by the attacks on five young women on Monday night. Thankfully nobody was critically injured but these were still violent and traumatic incidents. The PSNI are actively investigating the incident and would like the person in the images below to help them with their inquiries.  Did you see this person in the Linen Quarter on Monday night? Any information can be provided to Detectives at Musgrave CID – ring 101 and quote reference 1886 of 12/10/20. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The PSNI are also providing additional high visibility patrolling across the City core, with particular focus on the Linen Quarter.

LQ BID already work closely with the PSNI and other partners, but we are stepping up our efforts to provide further reassurance and deliver a safer district. The following immediate actions are underway:

(1) We recently renewed the enhanced policing arrangements for the district and have asked #StreetBeat and the wider City Centre team to focus on additional patrols in the early evening. The PSNI have also coordinated additional patrols at Great Victoria St train station, alongside a brand-new safer transport team.

(2) In the coming weeks LQ BID will conduct a lighting audit. We will report lights that require repairs, and also identify areas that may require additional lighting. We are currently working with both Department for Communities and the City Council to upgrade lighting at Blackstaff Square.

(3) We have worked alongside the PSNI to audit CCTV coverage in the Linen Quarter. Overall coverage is good but there are a couple of gaps. Over the coming months we will be developing a partnership funding package, schedule of works and planning, and hope to install enhanced facilities next year.

(4) LQ BID, as convener of the Purple Flag (night-time economy) steering group, have coordinated a £50k funding application for night-time volunteers, including SOS bus, Belfast Street Pastors, and Community Rescue (Lagan River). These groups provide practical services to make the city centre safer, as well additional guardianship on the streets during weekend evenings and late nights. If the funding is successful it will provide training and equipment that will support a safer city centre.

(5) LQ BID will continue to co-ordinate local organisations, under chairmanship of Mike Gatt (Maldron Hotel) to promote a safer district. If you are based in the Linen Quarter and would like to be part of this group (along with the opportunity to meet the police and feed in any of your own community safety concerns), then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.