This week, as Chairperson of LCCC’s Lisburn & Castlereagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Cllr Lowry announced and launched a new funding programme for local community groups who are doing the work on the ground to help tackle crime and reduce anti-social behaviour incidents.

Cllr Harpur has said: “There is no place for vandalism, harassment, or intimidation in our area. The destruction of a local bus shelter and the targeting of residents benefit no one — it only harms the community we all share.

“This is far from over, but it highlights something we’ve known for a long time: we need to see serious investment in our area to address the root causes and support long-term solutions.

“However, it’s about time for those perpetrating this kind of behaviour to see common sense before they end up with a criminal record as a result.

“We have work to do as public representatives in terms of tackling anti-social behaviour, but I’d also encourage the parents and guardians of the young people who may be caught up in it to have some frank conversations about the potential consequences of their actions.”

Cllr Lowry added: “The reality is, if we want less anti-social behaviour on our streets, we must give the young people who are getting involved in it viable, well-funded alternative options for how to spend their time, and address the underlying reasons they’re getting involved in the first place.

“That’s why I was proud to announce the launch of the council’s Project Support Programme, through which grants of between £500 and £5000 can be obtained by local community groups for projects which aim to reduce anti-social behaviour, support vulnerable individuals, improve confidence in policing, and build safer, more connected communities.

“We remain dedicated to effectively tackling anti-social behaviour, and everyone has their part to play.”