The site has become a hotspot for anti-social behaviour since the shopping centre closed last year
06:43, 22 Apr 2026
Connswater Shopping Centre in East Belfast closed to the public on March 21, 2025(Image: Justin Kernoghan)
Four young people have been detained by police after entering a derelict Belfast shopping centre. Connswater Shopping Centre in East Belfast closed to the public on March 21, 2025, and currently remains derelict.
Since its closure, issues with anti-social behaviour, including criminal damage at the site, have been ongoing. In a number of incidents last week, young people gained access to the former shopping centre, and were detained by police.
On Wednesday, April 15 at around 7.25pm, officers attended the scene and a 14-year-old girl was detained after a number of young people entered the premises.
READ MORE: Connswater Shopping Centre: What happens to site following closure
The following day, at around 5.30pm, police returned to the scene amid reports that youths had re-entered the premises. Three young people were detained by police.
Police have issued a warning to young people engaging in anti-social behaviour, and said they continue to work alongside local representatives and the community to find solutions to the problem. They have also urged parents and guardians to speak to their young people about the dangers of engaging in such behaviour.
Neighbourhood Inspector Dawson said: “Shortly before 7:25pm, police received a report of a number of young people inside the derelict premises. Officers attended and a 14 year old female was detained by police and referred through to the Youth Diversion Officer. The details of those young people in attendance were taken and letters to their parents and/or guardians will be sent in due course.
“At around 5:30pm on Thursday 16th April, police received a report that youths had re-entered the premises. Three young people were detained by officers, with a referral submitted to the Youth Diversion Officer.
“We are aware of ongoing issues of anti-social behaviour, including criminal damage at the derelict premises and continue to engage with residents and community representatives. Derelict buildings by their very nature can be unsafe and we do not want to see anyone being injured as a result of being inside.
“Young people who choose to engage in anti-social behaviour must understand it is unacceptable and must stop. People have a right to live in peace and to feel safe in their communities. Officers continue to work alongside partner agencies, local representatives and the community to find collaborative and proactive solutions to address the problem.
“Parents and guardians must speak to their young people about where they are and who they are with and also warn them of the dangers of getting involved in behaviour which could result in injuring themselves, others, or ultimately, a criminal record.”
A report can be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
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