Gateshead estate sees reduction in ABB

A plan to improve a Gateshead estate has been hailed as a major success, with a major reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour.

In May 2007, The Gateshead Housing Company started to implement a local lettings plan for over 300 flats in Redheugh and Eslington Courts.

The plan from Gateshead Council saw new tenancies at Redheugh and Eslington Courts only given to over 30 year olds, as well as a crack down on tenants with rent arrears and those taking part in anti-social behaviour.

In a recent report to the housing company's Board, the plan, which was developed in partnership with local councillors, residents and the Police, highlights a number of successes including:

*Anti-social behaviour being reduced by 48 per cent
*Rent arrears going down by almost £9,000 in the blocks, including the extra tenancies created
*Targeted action against 16 tenants for anti-social behavior, leading to several evictions and court orders
*A 70 per cent reduction in reported crime
*Criminal damage being reduced at the blocks by 81 per cent
*Just seven out of 134 new tenancies had been ended under the new plan
*A reduction in the fear of crime
*Better estate management
*Reduced environmental damage
*Improved demand for flats in the blocks through the HomeChoice lettings scheme
*Improved community spirit and cohesion.

Bill Fullen, chief executive of Gateshead Housing Company, which manages just under 22,000 homes, is delighted the plan has been a success for residents and for the company.

He said: "By working with Gateshead Council, the Police and other organisations our local lettings plan for Redheugh and Eslington Courts has been a major success.

"The feedback we are getting from tenants in the blocks and from residents around them is that it has made a genuine difference to the area."