Up to 100 young people drinking at school site

Local people who live in the Corrody Road area, just behind the school, said the noise made by the young people has got “out of hand” and they need it stopped.

“They are hanging about, talking and meeting up with friends,” one resident said. “They are arriving in taxis. It’s happening every Saturday night. It’s making people who live here very nervous.”

Hillcrest Trust and The Whistle Project said they are aware of the issue and say the number of young people coming to the area has escalated in recent weeks with many coming from areas in the city as far away as Culmore.

“Some of the young people are drinking and taking part in anti-community activities; residents are being intimidated and are left feeling afraid in their own homes and area,” a spokesperson added.

“Community workers in the area have met with the PSNI and others to work together to stop this behaviour continuing.

“We are calling on parents of young people to know where your child is and stop them coming into the Top of the Hill area for this type of gathering.

“For the parents of young people from the area please be aware of what your child is up to and where they are hanging out, speak to them about the effects of underage drinking and the impact that gathering in large numbers has on others.

“This type of behaviour is not welcome.”