Fears over city centre alleyway
THERE have been calls to have a city centre laneway closed off permanently due to alleged anti-social behaviour.
One employee of a business on Harmony Hill told The Sligo Champion of her fears that someone would be attacked or raped in the Hudson’s Lane alleyway, such is the extent of anti-social behaviour there.
It’s been alleged that gangs of youths are gathering in the alleyway at weekends to drink and take drugs.
Despite efforts by the Gardaí to move them on, they just re-appear once the Gardaí have left the scene. Hudson’s Lane is a public right of way and runs off Harmony Hill down to Grattan Street, with an exit next to McHugh’s pub.
County Councillor Cllr Declan Bree campaigned to have the public right of way at Hudson’s Lane restored last year.
When contacted by The Sligo Champion he said: “The public right of way at Hudsons Lane, which links Grattan Street with Conlon Street and Harmony Hill was traditionally closed from 7pm to 8am in the morning. In the past the owners of the lane usually took responsibility for opening and closing the gates at each end.
“However since the closure of McHugh’s licensed premises it is unclear as to who is responsible. What is clear is that the lane now remains open 24 hours a day.
“I understand that the Gardaí are concerned about people congregating in the lane after dark and with the increased level of anti social behaviour in the area.
“I have been in contact with Council officials on the matter and I can say that steps are now in the process of being taken by the Council to have the lane closed each night and re-opened as a right of way during the traditional daytime hours.
“While some individuals may want the lane closed off permanently, it has to be pointed out that the Council has a statutory obligation under the planning acts to ensure that the right of way is maintained. Closing the lane at night and opening in the morning will in my opinion resolve issues,” he said.