Concerns raised over reports of young people 'playing chicken in traffic' in South Belfast

Concerns have been raised following reports of young people "playing chicken" by running in front of traffic on a busy South Belfast road.

Botanic SDLP councillor Gary McKeown has said that he has received numerous reports from local residents of groups of young people running between moving traffic on the Ormeau Road, with drivers saying they have been left shaken after narrowly avoiding collisions.

The groups of young people are reportedly wearing dark clothing while "playing chicken" on the road with the councillor urging parents to speak to their children fearing that someone could end up seriously injured if the incidents continue.

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South Belfast councillor Gary McKeown said: "I've had reports from constituents of some young people playing a form of 'chicken' on the Ormeau Road where they run across between moving vehicles.

"One incident happened as it was getting dark and those involved were wearing dark clothing. Roadworks in the area had slowed down passing traffic, which may have been the only thing that prevented them from being hit. The drivers involved were understandably very shaken and had to pull over to gather themselves. The next time might not end so well.

"It doesn't bear thinking about what this could result in, so if you think your kids might be involved, it would be worth having a chat so they think twice and consider the implications."

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