Million-pound scheme for safer streets in two city communities

More than one million pounds is being invested in security measures in Stoke-on-Trent as part of the Government’s Safer Streets Fund, following a successful bid for funding through the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office.

Staffordshire Commissioner, Matthew Ellis and Stoke-on-Trent City Council Leader, Abi Brown visited Berdmore Street in Fenton today to see the project commence.

The Government Safer Streets Fund, which totals £25 million nationally, provides funds to improve security in areas particularly affected by acquisitive crimes such as burglary, vehicle theft and robbery. Residents in specific areas in both Fenton and Northwood will benefit with measures such as safer doors and windows, installation of security gates, improved lighting, intruder alarms and home CCTV systems.

CCTV cameras will also be available to provide a visible deterrent in hotspot locations together with individual CCTV systems for certain properties. These cameras can be redeployed to other streets within the two communities when needed.

Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, Matthew Ellis said: ‘The impact of burglary and theft on individuals and their communities is significant, which is why this investment is more important than ever before, especially with the additional challenges currently affecting our way of life. I am glad my office has been able to secure this funding and by working with Stoke-on-Trent City Council we are able to offer residents this opportunity. The communities of Fenton and Northwood are at the heart of this project and I want them to make it their own to create a positive lasting legacy.’

Stoke-on-Trent City Council Leader, Abi Brown said: ‘This is a tremendous opportunity for residents to take advantage of free works to improve the security of their home and to have their say on how we and partners can work together to bring improvements to their communities. Community safety is a key priority for the work of the council and this initiative will bring about significant investment and very visible support to help residents and also help our work and that of the police and other partners in tackling crime.”

Only residents in specific areas of Fenton and Northwood are eligible for this funding. All households meeting the criteria will receive a leaflet from the contractors, 24-7 Locks, featuring their contact details for a home security survey. 24-7 Locks are fully compliant with COVID guidelines and carry identification. Please only call the number if you have received a leaflet directly at your home, via post or a 24-7 representative has made contact whilst on location.

MP for Stoke-on-Trent South Jack Brereton said: ‘This substantial grant provides a real opportunity for us to positively impact the lives of people living in Fenton, helping reduce crime and making them feel safer in their own homes. I hope eligible residents will take up this opportunity and book a survey before the funding ends in March 2021.”

MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central, Jo Gideon said: “By working with the Commissioner’s Office and other partners this funding will put measures in place to effectively cut crime such as burglary and theft in targeted areas of Northwood. This is a fantastic opportunity for residents to request home security improvement work completely free of charge.”

(Main image L-R – City Council Leader, Abi Brown, PCSO Emily Davenhill, Sgt Chris Moss, Manager of 247-Locks Nick Bearne and Commissioner Matthew Ellis.)