In a proactive move to address concerns over anti-social behaviour (ASB), Swindon Borough Council and local partners are taking positive steps to make Eldene a safer and more inviting place for its residents.
Following an increase in reports of ASB, officers from Swindon’s Community Safety Partnership (CSP) engaged with the local community in July, knocking on doors to discuss how the area could be improved. This initiative aligns with the Council’s ongoing commitment to building fairer and safer communities for all.
Working alongside Wiltshire Police, Nythe, Eldene & Liden Parish Council, and Swindon CSP, the Council aims to enhance the safety of Bowleymead Square and its surrounding areas. The long-term vision includes regenerating the locality to create a space that can be enjoyed by the entire community.
In response to feedback from residents, the partnership has secured two CCTV cameras from both the Council’s Housing team and Wiltshire Police. These cameras will provide comprehensive coverage of Central Eldene and the footpaths leading from it. With regular police patrols in the area, it is hoped that these measures will significantly reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
Additionally, the Borough Council’s Grounds team will be trimming back overgrown trees and placing large planters to tidy up the environment and enhance the sense of safety in the neighbourhood.
To further involve the community, a clean-up day is scheduled for this Saturday, 5 October. Organised by Swindon CSP, the event invites residents to join partner agencies for a litter pick in the area. Attendees will also have the opportunity to speak with representatives from the Fire Service, Swindon Police, Voluntary Action Swindon, and the Borough Council about safety concerns or volunteering opportunities.
Youth charity BEST – Be a Better You will be providing free sessions for young people at the community centre, and the young volunteers from the Wonky Pizza Crew will be handing out free pizza to all those who participate in the clean-up.
Residents who can spare a few hours are encouraged to gather at Eldene Community Centre, Swindon SN3 3RZ, between 10.30 am and 2 pm.
The successful collaboration in Eldene is set to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the Borough, as the Swindon CSP launches the new group, PACT (Partners and Communities Together).
Councillor Janine Howarth, Cabinet Member for Housing, emphasised the importance of community engagement in tackling ASB. She stated, “Eldene has faced persistent challenges with anti-social behaviour, and we’re determined to restore peace to the area. The new CCTV cameras and the presence of anti-social behaviour wardens will contribute to this goal.”
Councillor Jim Grant, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, remarked, “The partnership work in Eldene is exemplary, and I am keen to extend this approach to other areas of the Borough. We will not tolerate criminality in our neighbourhoods and will take necessary action.”
Superintendent Guy Elkins, Swindon Commander, reinforced the significance of community input, saying, “Addressing residents’ concerns is crucial, and the collaborative effort between the police and partners showcases the power of community engagement. We urge anyone with information to reach out and assist us in our efforts.”
