Belfast: ‘Deterioration’ of city centre a ‘daily reality’ for businesses

Evans said rough sleeping had also “increased significantly”, with vulnerable individuals “left without support”.

He described the situation as “deeply inhumane” for those in need of help, and called for “immediate, visible, and meaningful action”.

He said this should include a strategy to address drug misuse, increased police and community safety presence, a plan for supporting rough sleepers and engagement with business owners.

The council spokesperson said: “While our council does not have the statutory powers to set up new healthcare facilities, place people into temporary accommodation, or take action to tackle crime, we recognise the role we do have in bringing partners together and ensuring these issues and concerns are addressed.”

The spokesperson said the council was working to support those who were homeless and vulnerable and also works with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to provide a visible presence in the city centre.

PSNI Ch Insp Andy George said the PSNI was “committed to addressing illegal drug use and supply”.

“We have been working tirelessly with our partner agencies, to clean up locations where drug use was suspected to have been taking place, and to make these locations less welcoming environments for drug users.”

He reminded those who use needles of the risk of discarding them and appealed to people not to touch them.