Victims of vehicle crime in areas of Newark are set to benefit from free state-of-the-art security devices as part of a major project to increase safety across the town.

Up to £10,000 of funding has been earmarked for vehicle security products for previous victims of car crime living in the Mill Gate, Bowbridge Road and Barnby Gate areas of the town to reduce their future vulnerability.

The project follows the highly successful Safer Streets scheme and is part of a £109,000 investment jointly-funded by Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry, Nottinghamshire Police, Newark and Sherwood District Council and Nottinghamshire County Council to keep Newark safe.

The initiative is already delivering free home security improvements including sensor lighting, window restrictors, video doorbells and in some cases WIFI and 4G security cameras to more than 100 homes in the areas.

In addition, Nottinghamshire County Council has provided £25,000 to improve lighting in the target areas.

Eligible residents who have previously had tools, equipment or vehicles stolen are now being offered additional vehicle security devices to help protect their livelihoods and property and reduce their fear of crime.

One of the first to benefit was self-employed builder Tim whose van was broken into 12 months’ ago, just before Christmas, and more than £3,000-worth of tools taken.

Thanks to Safer Streets, the 62-year-old has received a new CCTV camera overlooking the van on his driveway, door defenders to secure his garage doors and alarms in the shed and garage.

He said: “We were absolutely delighted to benefit from this scheme. Before the letter came I was actually looking at selling my van. It has now given me the confidence to go out and buy more kit.

“My van was broken into just before Christmas 12 months ago. In the run up to Christmas, you just think they’ll be out again breaking into vans — they seem to go on a splurge just before Christmas.

“It’s nice knowing there is now new security fitted to the house and outbuildings. We are so thankful. We were really happy with the service and the people who fitted the security. It’s nice to know this scheme is there for people who need it.”

Caroline Henry said: “I have spoken to people who have had their cars and tools stolen so I know what an impact vehicle theft can have.

“We must do more to protect our hardworking residents from these losses. Through the ongoing Safer Streets partnership, we will invest in practical resources to keep our communities safe and ensure those who have had the misfortune of falling victim before have the support they deserve to feel safe again.”

District Commander for Newark and Sherwood Insp Charlotte Allardice, from Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Free security devices like this are a great way to make people feel safe knowing their vehicles are protected and also any equipment that may be stored in their vehicles too.

“We understand the impact that vehicle theft and theft of work equipment and personal items can have on a victim not only financially but emotionally too and we will always do everything we can to investigate any such incidents.

“The force takes all reports of vehicle theft extremely seriously and works hard to support the victim and investigate such incidents.

“Free security devices like these are a great way for previous victims to protect their vehicles and equipment and add that extra bit of security for them to feel their possessions are protected.”

The new security devices include free tracking devices, van vaults to safely and securely store tools and valuable kit overnight, vehicle immobilisers that prevent vehicles from being driven away without the correct key or code, and deadlocks or slamlocks for vans.

Coun David Lloyd, leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said “It is so encouraging to see the huge amount of work the Safer Streets partnership is doing to improve the feeling of safety and security in our communities. Investing in resources to keep our residents and their property safe is extremely important and I encourage those eligible to take up this opportunity for these free security devices.

“We will not tolerate the theft of vehicles, personal items, and work equipment and nobody should live in fear so I hope this initiative allows previous victims to feel safer and more supported.”
Eligible residents will receive a letter by their local burglary reduction officer, PCSO Eleanor Smalley.

Pictured, from left, are Coun David Lloyd, Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry, PC2817 Marcus Bloomfield, Sue Miller, ASB Officer for Newark and Sherwood District Council, Newark Burglary Reduction Officer PCSO 4762 Eleanor Smalley, and PCSO 4847 Jamie Evans.

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