Patrols stepped up as police probe driving standards in Derry

A PSNI spokeswoman has confirmed the new initiative will include a renewed focus on the Strand Road area following concerns raised by local people.

Sinn Féin Derry Councillor, Mickey Cooper, said he welcomed an initiative by the PSNI to tackle what he termed “boy racers” located at a car park in the area.

Colr. Cooper, who has been involved in talks on this particular issue, said the problem has been a huge concern to local residents.

He said: “The general public and residents living in the lower Strand Road area have been well aware for some time of the issues with so called ‘boy racers’ gathering at a car park in the area.

“There have also been huge concerns about cars racing along Strand Road during the 11pm to 3am period.

“I have organised meetings between residents and the PSNI about this issue which left the police in no doubt about residents’ concerns.”

“As a result of this engagement and continued contact between myself and officers, I can now confirm that the PSNI met with the Driver Vehicle Agency enforcement senior management team at Strand Road.

“I welcome the confirmation that they have agreed a draft schedule of high visibility operations in the area planned to run to the end of the year to tackle this issue.”

A PSNI spokeswoman confirmed there will now be a heightened focus on the Strand Road area. She added: “Police are working with partner agencies to address issues relating to driving standards in the city.”

A number of local and statutory bodies as well as local individuals are also currently involved in plans for city-wide road safety campaigns.