Latest News

[24 JUNE 2004]

Tackling grime and crime across England and Wales with Operation Gate It

More than 70 communities throughout England and Wales will soon have cleaner, greener and safer neighbourhoods thanks to projects worth £1.1 million announced today by Home Office Minister, Hazel Blears.

The 73 projects are funded by Operation Gate It, a £2.3 million Home Office programme delivering physical environmental improvements to areas which are run-down, badly designed or poorly maintained and have become magnets for anti-social behaviour.

Operation Gate It is part of the Government's TOGETHER campaign, a £75 million initiative to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Launching the 73 successful projects at a scheme on the Pollards Hill estate in Merton, Ms Blears said:

“Dark, quiet alleyways often attract anti-social behaviour and crime and local communities should not have to put up with it. We have identified 74 communities whose alleyways will benefit from extra lighting, landscaping and CCTV funding – as well as gates, and we’re giving them all a share of £1.1 million to help turn their areas around.

“This funding shows the Government’s determination to work with communities across England and Wales to tackle, not tolerate, anti-social behaviour. People who are suffering from anti-social behaviour want action on the ground and Gate It does precisely that.”

Operation Gate It is delivered by national environmental charity Groundwork in partnership with BTCV, the UK’s leading conservation volunteering organisation, who are working with communities to carry out the local projects.

Tony Hawkhead, Chief Executive of Groundwork said:

“Run down areas with few facilities can often become a target for anti social behaviour, blighting neighbourhoods and leading to further decline. Groundwork’s experience indicates that by getting all sections of the community involved in improving their neighbourhoods, people will not only feel safer but changes will be more lasting.”

Tom Flood CBE, Chief Executive of BTCV welcomed the opportunity to work closely with communities across England and Wales. He said:

“BTCV has a strong and successful track record of working with diverse and multi-cultural communities who are improving their places. Operation Gate It will enable people to work together to create a safer, cleaner, greener and healthier environment for everyone to enjoy.”

Successful projects will tackle antisocial behaviour and fear of crime through design and physical improvements. Measures include improving pathways and communal areas, securing open spaces by installing bollards or gates and adding lighting and CCTV. All projects will be carried out in partnership with the local community.

For a list of projects download the full press release.