Lidl silent over anti-social behaviour at former Strabane site

SUPERMARKET giants Lidl have refused to comment on whether they will secure their former premises on Bradley Way in Strabane following concerns over possible anti-social behaviour on the site in recent days.

Concerns were raised by residents of Mourne Manor, adjacent to the site with local independent councillor Paul Gallagher.

Cllr Gallagher has revealed that ‘boy racers’ have been making use of the car park at the site, congregating there late at night, making noise and drinking. The local councillor further noted that the abandoned site has the potential for becoming a major trouble hotspot unless something is done.

He commented, “Residents are very concerned at the recent congregation of young people at the old Lidl site on Bradley Way. The residents of Mourne Manor who I have spoken with feel very vulnerable, afraid to go and challenge the boy racers who are there in case of altercations and are afraid to go to the police.”

Cllr Gallagher is asking Lidl, if they have retained ownership of the site since a recent relocation, to take steps in securing it to curb anti-social behaviour.

“I think it’s important to nip this in the bud; there’s no point in it becoming a plague which will only hurt nearby residents,” Cllr Gallagher said.

At the time of going to print, Lidl had not responded to the Chronicle’s request for comment.