RESIDENTS on Ross Road are calling for an alleyway to be secured following years of anti-social behaviour.
The alleyway which leads on to the Falls Road has been plagued by issues of criminality, fly-tipping and burnt-out vehicles.
Recently residents were subject to fires, noise and anti-social behaviour, with a scrambler even burnt out.
Pat Sheehan MLA and Councillor Tina Black have been working closely with residents to address the long-standing problems and have brought a number of agencies together, including the Housing Executive and Belfast City Council, for a multi-agency meeting to find a lasting solution.
West Belfast MLA Pat Sheehan said: “For far too many years, local families have had to put up with unacceptable conditions.
"Fly-tipping, burnt-out vehicles and ongoing anti-social behaviour have blighted this area, leaving residents feeling frustrated and let down. No community should have to live with these issues on their doorstep.
“Residents on Ross Road have been raising these concerns for years and they deserve to be listened to. I want to thank them for continuing to speak up and for working with us to secure this alleyway once and for all.
“As local MLA, I am committed to ensuring this issue remains a priority. Sinn Féin will continue working with all relevant agencies and pressing for the action needed to make this entrance safe, secure, clean and welcoming.
“The solution residents are asking for is straightforward – secure the alleyway to prevent the ongoing anti-social behaviour and illegal dumping."
Councillor Tina Black said: “This is a proud community and residents simply want to live in peace and enjoy their homes without having to deal with these issues on their doorstep.
“I have asked Belfast City Council for interim improvements to the alleyway while we continue to push for a permanent solution.
“Ultimately, we are demanding the Housing Executive to act as soon as possible and install an alley-gate at this entryway to secure it for local residents.
“We will continue working with residents and putting short-term measures in place where we can, but securing this entryway is essential to delivering the long-term change this community needs.”
