As a result of resident feedback at an open day held in Stonydelph significant changes are already being made to improve the safety and security of the area. The Councils Housing Department, local Street Wardens, police and Fire and Rescue service were on hand last month to give residents information and guidance about communal entrances and maintaining security.

During the open day residents, Fire and Rescue Service and Crime Prevention Officers shared their ideas on how to improve security in communal areas. The following improvements have been made:

You said: Resident and Crime Prevention Officer said “there is a need for 24 hour CCTV at the block, so the Police can prosecute those found responsible for the damage”

We did: A 24 hour CCTV system is now operating at the block which is being monitored by Tamworth Borough Council’s 24 hour control centre, which means any suspicious or criminal behaviour will be recorded and those found responsible will be prosecuted and legal action taken against their tenancy should they be a tenant of Tamworth Borough Council – which could result in the loss of their home.

You said: Resident said” I want the communal garden’s tidied of all litter and graffiti removed”

We did: The Councils Caretaking team have improved the appearance of the block by removing all graffiti, disposing of fly tipping and clearing the weeds/litter from the planted areas.

You said: Resident and Fire Service said “there’s a need for urgent repairs in the block and the removal of fire hoses to prevent youths flooding the landings”.

We did: All substantial criminal damage has now been repaired i.e. fire doors and windows. On approval from the Fire and Rescue Service, the fire hoses will shortly be removed. 

“The Councils Housing Department will continue to look at ways to improve the security of the communal areas of our properties and welcome any suggestions residents may have” said Councillor Mary Oates, portfolio holder for Quality of Life. “I would ask residents not to hesitate in contacting their local Housing Officer if they have any ideas on how to improve the security of their home. Residents should remain vigilant so that the safety of all residents living in blocks of flats or apartments is maintained as they are all responsible for the communal areas. If you believe that someone is loitering or acting suspiciously in communal landings, entrances or staircases then please contact the Police immediately.”