Extra police patrols planned as bank holiday crowds head to NI coast

Police are deploying extra officers to beaches, parks and town centres across Northern Ireland this bank holiday weekend as warm weather is expected to bring a major surge in visitors to coastal hotspots and tourist areas.

The PSNI said additional patrols will be visible across the North Coast, North Down and South Down over the sunny holiday weekend, with officers focusing on anti-social behaviour, alcohol-related disorder, dangerous driving and public safety.

The move comes amid concerns that popular seaside locations could again face disruption as large crowds descend on beaches and promenades during the spell of good weather.

For residents and businesses in busy tourist areas, the increased police presence is designed to prevent the kind of disorder that has previously overshadowed holiday weekends and placed pressure on emergency services and local communities.

Police warning ahead of busy holiday weekend

Superintendent Yvonne McManus said officers will be working throughout the weekend to keep people safe and reassure communities expected to experience a sharp rise in visitor numbers.

She said:

“We want everyone to enjoy the bank holiday safely.

“Previously, areas like Bangor have seen problems with anti-social and violent behaviour and we are doing all we can, with the support of local councils and other stakeholders, to keep these communities safe.

“We have arranged for extra officers to be deployed to provide reassurance, prevent anti-social behaviour and respond quickly when needed.

“It is vital we work together to promote responsible behaviour and support a safe environment for everyone.

“However you spend the bank holiday weekend, please be assured that our officers and staff will be working throughout to keep people safe.”

Focus on dangerous driving and disorder

Police say patrols will target a range of issues regularly linked to busy holiday weekends, including reckless driving, public drinking, violence and disruptive behaviour in crowded public spaces.

The North Coast and seaside towns across Northern Ireland typically experience a major increase in traffic and visitor numbers during periods of warm weather, placing added pressure on roads, public services and local residents.

The warning also comes as many families prepare to travel to beaches, promenades and outdoor attractions during the final days of the long weekend.

Officers are urging people to act responsibly, plan journeys carefully and avoid behaviour that could put others at risk or result in police intervention.

How to report incidents

Anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour or criminal activity is being urged to contact police.

• Call 101 for non-emergency incidents

• Call 999 in an emergency

• Submit a report online at: https://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

• Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

• Or online at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

The enhanced policing operation is expected to remain in place throughout the bank holiday period as thousands of people head to Northern Ireland’s beaches and tourist destinations to make the most of the sunny conditions.