Violent crime associated with South Belfast’s boozy nightlife will be a priority for cops this year, the PSNI have revealed.

The new Policing Plan for the area has just been launched and along with assaults associated with alcohol, locals have also urged police to tackle burglary and anti-social behaviour in their neighbourhoods.

Drawn up following consultations with the public and community representatives, the report promises to do away with “numerical targets” for officers, instead focusing on “personal, professional and protective” policing.

South Belfast Area Commander Gabriel Moran said work was under way to tackle the number of assaults relating to the local night time economy.

“Steps have already been taken to alter the policing operation linked to the night time economy in the city centre, to reduce the number of incidents of this nature that are associated with socialising,” he said.

“We are also committed to protecting vulnerable people and improving satisfaction with the service people receive. By continuing to build upon engagement that already takes place with partners and communities, we will aim to find long term solutions to problems, while using resources effectively and efficiently.

“The format of the local policing plan has been revised. The new style of plan moves away from solely numerical targets and sets outcomes and impacts for the PSNI to deliver against. For example, burglary and anti-social behaviour have been defined as issues which cause communities the most concern.  Outcomes that Police will aim to achieve in relation to these are reduced crime and anti-social behaviour and fewer victims.

“All the measures, impacts and outcomes in the plan have been designed to improve service delivery, engagement with the community and how the PSNI works in partnership with other agencies.”

Local Alliance Councillor Tom Ekin welcomed the launch of the 2012-13 report, adding: “As the new Chairman of the South Belfast District Policing and Community Partnership, I welcome the commitment shown by the police in its local policing plan for the area. The emphasis is on service delivery, community engagement and working in partnership and I think these three things are crucial in helping to reduce crime.

“I look forward to working in partnership with our local policing team to ensure that South Belfast receives the personal, professional and protective policing service it deserves.”