| Willow
Lane Inudustrial Estate Eliminates Crime
Background
Fly-tipping, graffiti, vandalism and theft had dogged Willow Lane Industrial Estate for more than two years. There are around 160 businesses on the estate that find it difficult to recruit and retain staff and generate new business due to the "shabby image" of the area. But now local businesses, the council and police are regenerating the area by improving public transport links, traffic flow and the estate's appearance.
There are a number of areas already identified both short and long term that require a focussed approach if any success is going to be achieved: improving the overall appearance of the estate; improving public transport onto the estate; awareness and improvements to security; and improving road access and signage.
The companies were surveyed and brought together by SOLOMAN to discuss possible ways forward and the cost-effectiveness of action. An action committee was formed, subscriptions gathered and an initial grant of £4000, matched by the businesses, funded a part-time co-ordinator for 3 months. This proved so successful that the businesses have continued to fund the co-ordinator. One of the businesses backing the initiative is DRD Communications, whose managing director Dave Dadds, said: "There are two sides to the issue. There are problems like vandalism, but it's also about improving the estate and issues like transport because it can be daunting for women employees walking alone, especially on winter evenings. Companies appreciate they have to work to maintain the estate".
Results
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CCTV has been installed, funded by the businesses and a supporting grant from the LDA. This and the good relations established with the local Police, have driven crime down.
The local authority has supported this work in a vigorous campaign against flytippers (including crushing the trucks that are involved) which has made the area a "no-go" area for dumpers.
The organisation on the estate has encouraged the Police to treat the area as a saturation policing area and this has virtually eliminated crime - never a "traveller" in sight!
The Local Authority has been very supportive and has utilised funding to upgrade the condition of the entrance road.
A new post box has been installed by the exit to the estate.
TFL is being lobbied for a new bus service onto the estate.
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As a result of the action so far on this estate, local businesses are now actively involved in the wider transport agenda – including bringing an extension to the tramlink through the estate.
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