Crime crackdown is extended

A campaign that has helped dramatically reduce crime on an East Durham estate is to be rolled out into two more areas.

The crackdown on bad behaviour in Eden Hill, Peterlee has seen criminal damage fall by 35 per cent in just four month.

Now Easington Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which launched the initiative, has announced it is to be extended into Easington Colliery and the Deneside area of Seaham.

Steve Arkley, Chairman of the CSP, said: “We’re very pleased with the results we’re achieving in Eden Hill and hope we can repeat that success when the campaign is rolled out to Easington Colliery and Deneside over the coming months.”

The Eden Hill initiative was launched in September and is part of a countywide project to tackle neighbourhood issues through problem solving.

During the past four months, it has seen police officers and District of Easington Council street wardens stepping up their regular patrols.

Fire crews have been monitoring the area to remove potential hazards and residents have been encouraged to take part in estate walkabouts.

The district council’s graffiti removal van has also been providing a 24-hour clean-up service and representatives from partner agencies have been visiting schools and providing a range of diversionary activities for young people.

The extended scheme, which is due to begin in March, should see similar action focused on the two additional areas.

However, representatives from all the organisations involved, including the police, fire service, primary care trust, community and voluntary groups and town and parish councils as well as the district and county authorities, will meet next week to discuss how the initiative will proceed.

Anyone who would like more information can contact the CSP on (0191) 518 6333.