PSNI issues Easter weekend safety appeal as North Coast prepares for Easter crowds

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has issued a strong public safety appeal ahead of what is expected to be a busy Easter weekend on the North Coast, with large visitor numbers set to descend on Portrush and Portstewart.

Police say officers will be deployed across key locations including transport hubs, beaches, hospitality venues and residential areas as part of a major effort to keep residents and visitors safe during one of the busiest holiday weekends of the year.

Causeway Coast and Glens Superintendent Yvonne McManus said policing teams will be highly visible throughout the weekend, with a particular focus on road safety, anti-social behaviour and the protection of women and girls.

Roads expected to be busy across Portrush and Portstewart

With Easter traditionally bringing significant traffic to the coast, motorists are being warned to expect delays and allow extra time for journeys.

Supt McManus said:

“We want to reassure the public that our policing teams will be on duty for everyone’s safety, particularly around busy transport stations, hospitality establishments, residential areas and beaches.

“With increased visitor numbers expected to the coast, there will inevitably be more congestion on our roads, due to large volumes of people moving in and around Portrush and Portstewart.

“Our ask is that everyone needs to expect such delays and to be patient, utilise the car parking facilities available and plan extra time for their journey.”

Police will also work alongside Translink and local council partners to direct traffic to car parks and overflow sites in an effort to reduce disruption.

Warning over dangerous driving and car meets

A significant part of the operation will centre on road policing, with officers carrying out vehicle checks and targeting dangerous driving.

Police have specifically highlighted growing concerns around car cruising and “diffing” — a manoeuvre commonly associated with donut-style spinning.

Supt McManus warned:

“We will not tolerate unsafe driving or anti-social behaviour linked with car meets on our public roads and spaces.

“It only takes a split second for a tragedy to occur on our narrow roads and we have sadly lost 20 people on roads across Northern Ireland this year already, we do not want to see this number increase.”

The warning is likely to resonate strongly with North Coast communities, where seasonal visitor traffic can place additional pressure on already narrow and heavily used roads.

Focus on nightlife safety and protecting women and girls

Police have also said a key operational focus this weekend will be preventing violence against women and girls, particularly in busy nightlife areas.

Officers will be patrolling public spaces and licensed premises, with the public encouraged to look out for friends, stay aware of drink safety, and make use of the Ask for Angela safeguarding scheme if they feel at risk.

Supt McManus said:

“Please drink responsibly, look out for one another and your drinks, taking necessary precautions against any potential spiking.

“Familiarise yourselves with our Ask for Angela scheme and seek assistance from members of staff in licensed premises, if you believe you’re in danger.”

She also urged young people to avoid underage drinking, warning that it can carry serious legal and longer-term consequences.

A message to visitors and residents

As thousands prepare to make the most of the Easter break along the coast, the PSNI’s message is clear: enjoy the weekend, but do so responsibly.

From road safety to nightlife awareness, the appeal aims to protect not only those visiting the area, but also the local communities who call the North Coast home.

Supt McManus added:

“Finally, please enjoy all the North Coast has to offer, and remember that together we can encourage safer roads, safer communities and safer socialising.”

---

At a glance

• PSNI has issued a safety appeal ahead of the Easter weekend on the North Coast

• Increased visitor numbers are expected in Portrush and Portstewart

• Police will patrol beaches, transport hubs, nightlife areas and residential streets

• Drivers are being warned to expect delays and use designated car parks

• Officers will target dangerous driving, car cruising and “diffing”

• Road checks will be carried out to ensure vehicles are road-worthy

• Violence against women and girls is a key policing focus

• Public urged to use Ask for Angela and stay alert to drink spiking risks

• Police also warned against underage drinking and anti-social behaviour