A recent walkabout around Eldon Lane by representatives of Durham County Council, Durham Police, County Durham Fire and Rescue Service and Eldon Parish has identified a number of problem areas, with landlords urged to help keep the area clean and safe.
Some of the problems, which were noted and photographed, included back yards filled with rubbish, dumped furniture and broken glass, garden walls on the verge of collapse, fly-tipping on a section of poorly maintained green land and unsecure, boarded up empty properties. During the walkabout, police officers had to secure one property, which had been burgled.
The group of officials is now requesting landlords to tidy up their houses and help improve the area, with a warning that action will be taken should problems continue to be reported.
Durham County Council and Durham Police have expressed their willingness to advise and assist homeowners and private landlords.
PC David Williamson, crime prevention officer at Durham Police, said: “There is a responsibility with the landlords to take action and not let these properties stand empty for too long.
“They are just being left and that creates an environment that is an easy target for criminals. If properties are managed then it reduces the opportunity.
“People have a responsibility to maintain these properties for the rest of the community.”
Anyone wanting crime prevention advice should call the crime prevention officer at Durham Police on 101 or to speak to Durham County Council call 03000-260000.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
