On Friday 28th March, The Shildon Smart Allotment Scheme was launched at All Saints’ Road Allotments.
The local Area Action Partnership provided funding for the initiative, which is designed to act as a deterrent in allotment crime. Each allotment has been issued with signs to be erected around perimeter fencing, and Smartwater security marking kits have also been issued to allotment holders. This forensic marking system is designed to provide police with evidence of either a suspect’s involvement in a particular crime, or the ownership of recovered stolen property. Spray paint has also been issued to each of the 14 allotments in Shildon. Each site is colour coded so allotment holders can spray a flash of paint on tools and equipment. This initiative will not only act as a deterrent but will also help identify equipment if anything is stolen from now on.
PC David Littlefair of Shildon Police said, “Credit must go to excellent partnership between Shildon Town Council, Durham Constabulary and the Safer Durham Partnership, who are all working together for the benefit of all the allotment holders in Shildon.
“The police take allotment crime very seriously because we see first-hand what impact it has on allotment holders.
“Shildon Police will continue to work with allotment holders to ensure the utmost is being done to prevent allotment crime.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
