PSNI clarifies role in Ballymena immigration “Red Zone” assessments

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has outlined its role in the assessment process used to determine the suitability of areas for asylum accommodation, following political and public debate over Ballymena’s reported classification as an immigration “Red Zone”.

In a statement to Love Ballymena, the PSNI confirmed that it is one of several agencies involved in the system, working with the Executive Office, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and the Home Office.

“A regular and ongoing function of policing is to conduct assessments, which are essential to shaping and informing operational decision-making processes and supporting partners in their decision-making,” a spokesperson said.

Data-driven assessments

The police stressed that assessments draw on a wide range of information, not just police intelligence.

“As part of these assessments, a range of relevant information is carefully considered. This includes statistical data relating to previous hate-motivated incidents reported to the police, as well as additional information shared by partner agencies.

“This process assists in ensuring any assessments are made based on a full range of data,” the statement continued.

The PSNI said the process contributes to a “heat mapping” system, used to shape decisions on asylum accommodation across Northern Ireland.

What does “Red” mean?

The force explained that the heat mapping system creates ward-level assessments within council areas, offering evidence for government and housing providers.

“Regarding the classification of areas such as Ballymena, a heat mapping system is used to shape and inform decision of partners around the suitability of accommodation,” the statement said.

“A designation of ‘Red’ indicates there are matters or sensitivities which need to be considered by partners regarding the procurement or suitability of accommodation in that specific area.”

The PSNI added its commitment to providing a robust service across the area, but did not clarify if any specific actions or procedures that correspond to the ‘red zone’ status.

“Policing in Ballymena, as across all of Northern Ireland, continues to be delivered around the clock, seven days a week, ensuring a consistent and responsive presence to maintain public safety and community confidence,” the spokesperson said.

Political concerns remain

The clarification follows sustained political pressure on the UK Government to explain Ballymena’s status. North Antrim MLA Paul Frew has repeatedly raised concerns that the town’s reported designation as a “Red Zone” has left residents without answers.

In July, Mr Frew wrote to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland after riots in the town, warning that the Government must do more to address underlying tensions. His letter was later referred to the Home Office.

Earlier this month, Mr Frew said the reply he received from Borders Minister Alex Norris MP had left him with “more questions than answers”.

While Mr Norris confirmed that the current heat mapping model will be replaced with a more localised “risk-based individual property check approach”, he did not directly address whether Ballymena had formally been classified as a “Red Zone”.

Mr Frew said:

“Unfortunately, this response has left me with more questions than answers. I have repeatedly pressed the government to bring forward an effective multi-agency response to ensure support is delivered on the ground in the areas that need it.

“The Minister also made no reference to the apparent classification of Ballymena as an immigration ‘Red Zone’. It is crucial that if Ballymena has been classed as such that we are provided with the details and can understand what exactly this means for the people of the town and the Police Service.”

Ongoing debate

The PSNI’s intervention clarifies how “Red” designations are reached but does not settle the wider political debate over what the label fully means for Ballymena in practice.

For now, the town remains at the centre of a broader discussion about asylum policy, policing, and community safety — with local representatives continuing to demand transparency from the UK Government and its agencies.