Concern over loutish behaviour at Odyssey

The Odyssey Complex in Belfast has been slammed by a Judge, who said that it seemed to be attracting loutish behaviour, similar to that seen in Bradbury place a few years ago.

These comments were made after a man appeared in front of the Magistrate following his arrest at the East Belfast complex.

Resident Magistrate Desmond Perry said: "This is particularly worrying as the Odyssey, at its inception, was meant to be a place for family entertainment."

The PSNI have reported a total of 94 arrests being made at the complex in 2005.

Chief executive of the Odyssey, Peter Holmes claims that it is still a family friendly venue which had been "absolutely full of children and young people going to W5, the cinemas and restaurants during the course of the day."

He added that although it does become more of a restaurant, bar and later a nightclub venue in the evening, it still remains very much a family destination.

Police, who have worked closely in partnership with the Odyssey since it opened, have said that policing resources have had to be stepped up recently. However, this was attributed to an increase in numbers attracted to the facilities, which are used by approximately 4.2 million people last year.

A police spokesperson said that officers from East Belfast District Command Unit would continue to ensure that the Odyssey remains a safe venue for the public to enjoy and police will deal with anyone seen to be causing a disturbance.

Ulster Unionist East Belfast assembly member, Michael Copeland, said: "Despite the presence of 24-hour security and CCTV at the complex, concerns have been raised about the loutish behaviour in the area.

"Management at the Odyssey Arena should take these views on board. I would also urge patrons of the bars and restaurants in the complex to drink in moderation and behave responsibly.

He added: “The arena is an important local employer and is a valuable asset to the economy of inner city East Belfast. I trust that management will take these concerns on board and take whatever steps necessary to reassure the public that the appropriate measures are in place.”

(EF/SP)