Trouble has flared in recent years in the Holyland district in south Belfast

POLICE have already started a crackdown on anti-social behaviour by students in south Belfast ahead of St Patrick’s Day this weekend.

Officers from the PSNI Laganbank were knocking on doors in Holylands district off the Ormeau Road on Wednesday morning over complaints of anti-social behaviour during the past week.

The PSNI said: “This afternoon we’ll be forwarding all the details to the university discipline officers for action.

“Sergeant Mooney has also been out with Belfast City Council calling to addresses that have brought themselves under notice for noise complaints.”

Last week the PSNI’s sector commander warned of a crackdown on students misbehaving during St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Police said patrols will once again be on the ground in the lead up to Sunday and warned that anyone who steps out of line will be dealt with “robustly”.

PSNI Chief Inspector Gabriel Moran said: “Anyone wishing to visit South Belfast to celebrate St Patrick’s Day peacefully and without causing disruption is encouraged to do so and I hope they thoroughly enjoy all the events planned over that weekend.

South Belfast area commander Chief Inspector Gabriel Moran

“But be assured, we will robustly deal with anyone stepping out of line.

“Those planning parties must consider the wishes of those living nearby and should not create excessive noise, or become involved in anti-social behaviour.

“They must conduct themselves lawfully and with respect to others at all times.”

Police, Belfast City Council and university representatives took to the streets last March as part of a major crackdown on overnight trouble, with seven men and one woman arrested for offences including disorderly behaviour, drink driving, common assault and criminal damage.

Once again, both Queen’s University and the University of Ulster encouraged students to stay off the streets over the St Patrick’s weekend, with the Friday and Monday given as days off.

Professor Alastair Adair, Provost, Ulster University Jordanstown and Belfast said: “In the interests of good community relations we are asking all students in south Belfast to go home over St Patrick’s Day.

“And anyone who wishes to remain should be respectful and considerate of local residents during the celebrations”.

Tony Gallagher, QUB Pro-Vice-Chancellor, said: “While last year saw a significant reduction in the number of young people in the area at that time we cannot become complacent and for those who choose to come to the Holyland and become involved in anti-social behaviour there will be consequences.

“The message is very clear – do not come to the Holyland for St Patrick’s weekend.”