One of the men accused of leading a loyalist show of strength in East Belfast has failed in a new bid to be allowed back into the city.
Derek Lammey was refused permission to return home while on bail over his alleged involvement in a gathering of up to 60 masked men at Pitt Park.
Mr Justice O’Hara ruled today: “The exclusion zone should not be reduced.”
The 56-year-old, from Spring Place in the city, faces charges of unlawful assembly and affray in connection with the incident in February.
Stephen Matthews, 58, of Pansy Street in Belfast, and his 34-year-old son, David Matthews, of Millreagh in Dundonald, are accused of the same offences.
All three defendants deny involvement and are not charged with any paramilitary offences.
But according to prosecutors the group of masked men who arrived at Pitt Park are believed to be linked to the East Belfast UVF.
Disputed claims have been made that 11 people living in the area were forced to flee their homes and shelter in the nearby Ballymac community centre for more than a week.
A Crown lawyer contended: “There were pregnant women and children, they were in fear of the crowd."
Lammey is currently out on bail to an address in Co Down, with conditions including a ban on entering the area or contacting any other suspected participants.
Opposing his bid to be allowed back home, prosecution counsel claimed: “This applicant was one of three individuals who led the crowd to the centre.
“His presence in the area would add to community tensions.”
Defence barrister Ian Turkington argued there was no evidence of any risk of interference with witnesses.
He insisted Lammey could be allowed back home without having to go near Pitt Park.
However, Mr Justice O’Hara held the current residence requirements should remain in place.
He added Lammey can attend any medical appointments in East Belfast – provided he gives police advance notification.
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