PSNI committed to 'tackling supply and use of illicit drugs' ahead of Belfast music festival

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Police say they are committed to "tackling the illegal supply and use of illicit drugs" ahead of a south Belfast festival.

It comes after police confirmed road closures will be in place as Belfast Vital, headlined by Sam Fender, is set to coincide with Linfield's match.

Both events are due to take place Thursday evening in the Boucher Road area.

Linfield's UEFA Conference League play-off match against Shelbourne at Windsor Park will kick off at 7.45pm.

Around 40,000 fans are expected to attend the outdoor festival just a few hundred yards away.

Sam Fender is headlining the festival at Boucher Road Playing Fields, supported by Irish singer-songwriter CMAT.

Kneecap will perform as special guests at Fontaines DC's gig on the second night of the festival on Friday, August 29

Ahead of the festival police have reminded concert goers "to be respectful, safe, and mindful of the consequences of illegal behaviour."

District Commander Superintendent Allister Hagan said: "We want everyone attending the concert to have a great night, to stay safe, and remember the event for all the right reasons.

"Police have been working in partnership with the event organisers and other agencies around the planning for this event, and those in attendance will see our officers on the ground, working hard to ensure their safety."

Superintendent Hagan urged people to plan their travel to and from the festival in advance and to ensure their mobile phones are charged so they can stay in contact with friends.

He reminded concert goers that alcohol cannot be brought into the playing fields and issued a warning to anyone found supplying or using illegal drugs.

"I'm aware of recent concern, and want to reassure the community that we, as a Police Service, are committed to tackling the illegal supply and use of illicit drugs," Superintendent Hagan continued.

"Anyone tempted to become involved in the supply or use of these items should be under no illusion; we will seek to identify them, arrest them and place them before the courts.

"Please act responsibly, stay with your friends and look after one another - if you need help during the evening, or have any concerns, speak with event staff or the police."

With thousands expected to descend on the Boucher Road for the opening night of Belfast Vital and Linfield's match, road closures will be in place.

Festival gates will open at 4pm - with the show beginning at 5.00pm - and organisers have warned ticket holders that overnight camping and early queuing are not allowed.

The PSNI said that the city-bound lane one of Boucher Road, between its junction with Shane Retail Park and Balmoral Road, will be closed between 3pm and 9pm.

A PSNI spokesperson added: "Boucher Road will be closed between its junctions with Tates Avenue and Stockman's Lane between 9pm and midnight.

"Stockman's Lane will be closed between its junction with Kennedy Way roundabout and Lisburn Road between 9pm and midnight.

"The M1 off-slips - northbound at Kennedy Way and southbound at Stockmans Lane - will be closed from 9pm."

Police has urged motorists to use alternative routes and reminded fans to follow parking restrictions.

"Officers would also like to remind those attending the festival that it is illegal to stop, park or walk on the hard shoulder of motorway," added a PSNI spokesperson.

"The hard shoulder is for emergency use only.

"Last year, officers issued a number of penalty tickets to motorists after attendees at similar events were dropped off from vehicles queuing on the motorway, and making their way to the event by walking down the hard shoulder.

"Please be aware that fixed penalty tickets can also be issued to pedestrians.

News Catch Up - Wednesday 27th August

"We want all those attending the festival and the football to have a safe night and to remember the event for all the right reasons - stay safe, leave sufficient time for your journey, and plan your route in advance."