MILLMEAD SEES RESULTS OF CRIME INITIATIVE

An update has been given on the results achieved by the Community Safety Partnership in Millmead.

The AGM at SureStart Millmead heard that overall crime in the area has reduced by 7.9%, with 69 less cases of criminal damage this year, compared to 2008. This is the best result in the whole of Thanet in terms of criminal damage.

Since work began in Millmead, Community Payback and Hang 10 have carried out litter picks and graffiti removal, which has made a significant difference to the appearance of the area. Residents have also been written to about fly tipping and the fines that can be imposed.

Repeat problem tenants have been evicted, with operations also taking place to target the problem of mini motos in the area. The Safer Spring initiative resulted in more than 50 stop and searches and a number of alcohol seizures from youths.

Local people have been kept updated with progress through newsletters, leaflets, crime contact cards, updates on noticeboards and work by PCSOs, community wardens and the council's housing team.

A number of community events have also been held, including Easter Blast, the D Day celebration and regular meetings now take place of the local PACT panel (Partners and Communities Together) and the Community Action Group. There are youth activities every night from Sport 4NRG, Charlton Athletic, Hang 10, SureStart for Teenagers and the local PCSOs.

Tiffany Hall, Neighbourhood Crime and Justice Coordinator, said: "These results have only been achieved through everyone working together. In particular, SureStart Millmead have supported our work throughout and the council, along with police, have played a valuable part in helping to tackle the problems on the estate. It's very obvious the difference that our work has been on the estate. You only need to look at the before and after photos that we've taken there to see what an impact we've had."