THE NON-ALCOHOL SPACE that has been asked to vacate a premises in Dublin’s Temple Bar was asked to leave because of anti-social behaviour, the Temple Bar Cultural Trust says.

Supporters are rallying to save the space, which operates on Exchange Street, after they were told to hand back the keys to the building this Friday.

Over 2,000 people have signed a petition urging Dublin City Council (DCC) and the Temple Bar Cultural Trust (TBCT) to spare Exchange, which offers an alcohol-free space for young people and artists.

The Cultural Trust says that the problem stems from anti-social behaviour by those who attended events in the area.

“[There was] an upsurge in anti-social behaviour including a serious assault, drug use and noise issues,” a spokesperson told TheJournal.ie.

“At [a] meeting on 24 January everyone acknowledged that representatives of the Exchange were doing their best but that those engaged in anti-social behaviour and intimidation were seeking and gaining access to the Exchange and that it was becoming a focal point for such activity. The problem was ongoing and unmanageable with many residents feeling very intimidated and frightened.”

TBCT say that they acknowledge the work of those at Exchange, but say that they have suspended the licence for three months, with the suspension being reviewed monthly.

“The Exchange must recognise that it has a critical part to play in addressing anti-social behaviour by properly managing and securing its premises. If appropriate steps are taken to do this and following a monthly review DCC and TBCT will work with The Exchange to help them re-enter this building.”

The spokesperson said that no other type of rental will be considered in the months of the suspension.

Read: Non-alcohol space Exchange Dublin told to close over ‘anti-social behaviour’