Residents of a 1950s estate in Cambridge have described living in fear of a 'Lord of the Flies' gang of youths who break into homes with golf clubs. The Ekin Road estate, where only 14 of 122 homes are spared from demolition, has seen a surge in antisocial behaviour since February, with groups of up to 20 youths targeting vacant properties.
Dr Maurice Chiodo, who led the Save Ekin Road Campaign, said the youths 'roam around with impunity,' using abandoned bins to climb onto balconies and smashing interiors. 'They come with golf clubs and pulverise everything to dust,' he said, likening the scenes to William Golding's novel. The remaining households, around 15, have reported feeling unsafe for the first time in decades.
Cambridge City Council plans to demolish all 122 homes and rebuild with 78 council houses and 56 private properties. Residents began moving out in July 2024, leaving the estate 'very empty' and vulnerable. Dr Chiodo noted that the council's poor management, including leaving bins for two years, has exacerbated the problem.
Sandra Ellis, 71, who lives in one of the protected homes, said residents have been left in 'limbo' on the ghost estate. 'The kids think they can do what they like,' she said. 'The council have left us in limbo and we should not be forgotten.'
A council spokesperson acknowledged the 'frustrating and sometimes frightening experience' for remaining residents, adding that they are committed to reviewing security measures. However, with bulldozers potentially 18 months away, residents are calling for immediate action to secure empty buildings.
