Greater Manchester Police have reported a 30 per cent reduction in crime following a year-long crackdown on a troubled estate in Bolton. The operation, named Operation Coronation, was launched in the Rumworth area in May last year amid persistent reports of anti-social behaviour, drug-related crime and exploitation of vulnerable residents on the Thornbank Estate.
Closures and new centre
As part of the operation, two closure orders were issued in the area, with three further addresses closed through tenancy action or voluntary surrender. A new Urban Care and Neighbourhood (UCAN) centre was also opened in the centre of the estate.
Over the last 15 months, the number of incidents reported has halved and crime volume has reduced by almost 30 per cent, according to police. A police chief said the estate has been 'transformed' during the crackdown.
Partnership praised
The operation, a partnership between GMP, Bolton Council and Be One Homes, came to an end this week. Sergeant Oliver Cooper, from GMP's Neighbourhood Team in Bolton, said: "This operation has been significant in increasing public confidence and safety.
"Ensuring people feel safe amongst their own homes and communities is the main focus of neighbourhood policing, and it's been incredibly rewarding to see the impact this operation has had for residents and overall community wellbeing. I'm truly proud of my officers and teams for the immense work they've put in for this operation."
Lasting change
He added: "Their commitment and dedication to this work has had visible results and had an extremely positive impact amongst the public. The operation has transformed a high-demand estate, protected vulnerable people, disrupted crime, and most importantly, delivered meaningful and lasting change."
Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Akhtar Zaman, said: "This is a great example of partnership working to ensure residents of the Thornbank Estate can live in a safe and secure community that they can be proud of.
"The success of Operation Coronation lies in the right mix of engagement and cooperation while also taking tough direct action where necessary. The support available at the UCAN centre will ensure this positive work will continue into the future."
Gemma Hotchkiss, enforcement manager at Be One Homes, added: "We're committed to working in partnership to address antisocial behaviour and improve the quality of life for our residents. The progress made through Operation Coronation shows what can be achieved when organisations work together, alongside residents, to tackle issues that matter to local communities.
"We'll continue to support residents and work closely with Greater Manchester Police and Bolton Council to ensure neighbourhoods remain safe and welcoming places to live."
