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Issue Date: 28th March 2006
CRIME FALLS SIGNIFICANTLY IN NORTH BENWELL AS INITIATIVE PROVES SUCCESS
Crime in North Benwell fell by 30 per cent between September 2004 and September 2005, and the number of empty homes in the area decreased by 32 per cent in the same period.
The remarkable figures were revealed at an event held on Thursday 23rd March to celebrate North Benwell's successes and to launch the North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative annual report for 2004-2005.
The event, which included presentations by the Police, community groups and local residents, also saw the Initiative outline its other highlights for the past twelve months. Christina Gates, Neighbourhood Manager for the Initiative said:
"The past year has brought many achievements for the area, as the statistics for crime and empty homes clearly demonstrate. The number of empty homes in the area is now half that of when we began operating in 2003".
"We have set up and supported a number of schemes and projects designed to enhance the community, such as the Junior Wardens scheme and our Neighbourhood Board which enables residents to work effectively with agencies."
One resident to benefit from the support of the Initiative is Shelagh Gunn, a 25 year old North Benwell resident. Supported by Christina Gates and her team, Shelagh helped to organise the setting up of a local parent and toddler group and is now a representative on the Initiative's partnership board.
She said: "Becoming involved in the community has given me a lot of confidence to try new things. The partnership board means that I can take part in making positive things happen in Benwell."
North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative covers over 2,000 properties and is funded by Bridging NewcastleGateshead (BNG). It is delivered by Home Group Ltd, Newcastle City Council and Northumbria Police as part of Bridging NewcastleGateshead.
Martin Walker, Head of Programme Management with BNG commented: "BNG supports the Initiative as it is fundamental to our efforts to make North Benwell a great place to live."
"The North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative has made huge progress since it was established and plays a vital role in the community."
Current work by the Initiative includes overseeing a project which brings five derelict properties back into use. The homes are currently being renovated and will be sold as affordable housing.