Free home security available to Openshaw residents

Up to 300 residents in the Toxteth Street area of Openshaw in east Manchester can sign up for free home security.

This is available thanks to a new £15,000 home security initiative funded jointly by New East Manchester, Adactus Housing Group and Greater Manchester Police.

Residents can make an appointment to have a door frame guard, hinge bolts, door bar restrictor and two window shock alarms fitted by a specialist contractor. The work is part of a range of measures being introduced to minimise problems in the area as it undergoes massive redevelopment.

The £65 million new housing scheme for the area, which is designed to represent a modern interpretation of traditional terraced streets, comprises a range of 390 two and three storey townhouses, 36 two bedroom apartments and 6 bungalows. Secure parking, traffic calming measures and local amenities have also been incorporated into the plans.

Work started recently on the first phase that will comprise 83 homes including 65 two, three and four bedroom houses and 18 two bedroom apartments. The houses will be a mixture of private housing available for purchase through the developer, Lovell, and social housing available for rent through Adactus Housing Association. The first homes are due for completion next Autumn.

Sean McGonigle, Director of Regeneration at New East Manchester said; "This offer is open to anyone living in the Toxteth Street area, particularly vulnerable residents. By having these extra security features fitted, we hope to make people feel safer when at home, especially in these dark evenings. The work only takes an hour and can be arranged at their convenience. We hope as many people as possible take up this offer."

Bradford Neighbourhood Inspector Ruth Bradley-Holt said: "We are constantly working with our partners and local residents to help keep our communities safer. At this time of year it is vital that everyone takes extra care in keeping their homes secure and their windows and doors locked. New initiatives like this are always welcomed by GMP and I am confident that residents will feel the benefit of this added security."

Suzanne Bullock, Area Housing Manager at Adactus Housing Group said: "Many burglaries can be easily prevented by making sure homes are secure and, importantly, installing security measures also helps people feel safer and more comfortable in their homes. We would encourage any residents in the area to take up this offer to make their homes and their local community safer."

Call 0161 234 1494 for more information and to sign up for free home security before 11 January 2008.

Media contact:

Roz Hughes on 0161 223 1155