Liège Residents Avoiding City Center Streets Amid Rising Drug-Related Concerns
Liège, Belgium – September 16, 2024 – A growing sense of insecurity is prompting residents and visitors to avoid certain districts of Liège due to escalating issues with drug trafficking and addiction, according to reports surfacing ahead of Monday’s city council meeting.The concerns center on the impact of drug dealing on public safety and social cohesion within the city center, especially in areas like Rue du Pont, known for its narrow streets.
The situation has prompted calls for immediate and sustained action from local political figures. Caroline Saal, head of the Burning Green Group, is set to address the liège city council on September 16th, demanding “concrete… and local measures” to address the problem. While acknowledging the Green party’s broader stance on combating international narcotics trafficking, Saal emphasized the need for localized solutions to reassure residents who “fear for thier safety.”
“I would like to be clear: I do not ask that you hit a big blow then Basta. No,the effects of the shock operations of this type were demonstrated: it causes a lull for a few days then the deal reinstalls when the police are raising the camp,” Saal stated,advocating for “lasting work alongside the inhabitants and the merchants,in security and in social cohesion.” She urged authorities to address the “loneliness” felt by residents and seek solutions to restore a sense of security.
Saal is proposing a multi-pronged approach, including increased pedestrian police patrols during shop closing hours and a potential redevelopment of problematic streets like Rue du Pont.She believes redesigning these areas could act as a deterrent to drug dealing while simultaneously revitalizing the commercial ground floor. “Or even kill two birds with one stone: by making it more beautiful, the commercial ground floor would be more attractive and their occupation would create a reassuring presence and social control for the neighborhood,” she explained.
Ahead of Monday’s council session, Saal plans to formally question city officials on several key points:
Follow-up on previously received letters from concerned citizens and plans for meetings with residents and traders.
Details regarding the deployment of neighborhood police and social cohesion services in the affected district.
The status of potential urban planning projects aimed at addressing the issues in these streets.
Adaptations to existing prevention and social cohesion plans to address the evolving security challenges facing Liège.
The concerns come as Liège, like many European cities, grapples with the wider issue of drug addiction and its associated problems. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by municipalities in balancing law enforcement efforts with social support and urban development strategies to create safer and more vibrant communities.
