A spate of “serious incidents” at a popular Armagh city centre shopping arcade has forced the owners to consider implementing on-site security for business owners’ and shoppers’ safety.
A rise of anti-social behaviour and vandalism at the Thomas Street Armagh Shopping centre – where Eurospar is the anchor tenant – has been causing great distress and alarm over the last number of weeks.
Alongside Eurospar, the high-footfall premises is home to both burgeoning and long-standing businesses, including Strength & Tone Reformer Pilates, Tip Top, a charity shop, barbers, e-cig and vape kiosk and entertainment centre.
Several of the highly-frequented and renowned businesses within the complex – including Mackles ice-cream parlour, Carla Mackle hair salon and The Beauty Rooms – are owned by family members of the Mackle family, who also own the entire arcade.
Expressing her outrage and upset at recent events, Donna Mackle took to social media to slam those responsible, commenting: “Over recent weeks, our centre in Armagh has been subjected to ongoing anti-social behaviour from a group of young boys.
“This has escalated to serious incidents including broken doors, smashed windows, and smashed mirrors within the premises as well as being verbally abusive to our staff members.”
Donna then referenced a video attached of a youth allegedly “harassing” a female member of staff.
The video shows two hooded youths standing outside The Beauty Rooms before opening the door to the salon and throwing inside what appeared to be an open bottle of water.
The perpetrators then run in the direction of Eurospar.
“We have reported these incidents to the relevant authorities and schools on multiple occasions,” she continued. “Despite this, the behaviour is continuing.
“If any parents, family or guardians recognise these boys, we urge you to speak with them and help bring an end to this behaviour.
“We simply want to provide a safe and respectful environment for everyone in our centre. We did not want to bring this onto social media, but we now feel we have no other option.”
She also shared a number of CCTV stills – with faces covered – of the individuals believed to be at fault and an image of a smashed mirror in one of the toilets.
It is understood that spates of previous anti-social behaviour led the centre management to close off free access to the toilet and that they are now only accessible by nominal payment.
Donna’s twin sister – owner of The Beauty Rooms and part owner of new brand ‘Twin Secrets’ alongside her sister – Patrice Mackle shared a post which read: “Security Officer required – Armagh Shopping Centre.
“We are seeking a Security Officer to help maintain a safe and secure environment for customers and staff. Duties include patrols, monitoring and responding to incidents.”
Those in a position to provide services should contact Patrice directly in private message via Instagram or Facebook.
PSNI Inspector Nick Browne said: “Local police are aware of reports of an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area of Armagh shopping centre and Thomas Street, we do understand that anything that impacts on a community’s quality of life can cause concern.
“We would encourage anyone who is experiencing anti-social behaviour or has information in relation to recent incidents, to please get in touch with us via the usual channels. Information is key to enabling us to dedicate our resources where they are needed most and respond to any crimes in progress.
“Officers will be on patrol to maintain a presence in the area over the coming days.”
Call us in Armagh on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.
Alternatively, you can submit a report online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
