1 week Ago
Residents have been left outraged after a new £3.2m housing estate in Walkden has been targeted by ‘hooligans’ who smashed in the windows as well as causing other damage. The new 18-home development is located on Mayfield Avenue and will see more than 50 homes built for a total cost of around £10 million.
It is currently being developed by developer, ForHousing and is valued at £3.2m with work expected to be completed in summer. Windows pf the property have been vandalised.
(Image: James Jordan) The extent of the damage currently remains unclear. Images from the scene show that multiple windows have been smashed and a wooden gate damaged. Local Councillor Irfan Syed has called out a “lack of concern” from some parents following a string of disturbances in the area and has called for the community to come together to educate young people.
Cllr Irfan Syed said in response to residents concerns: “It is deeply saddening to see properties in our community being vandalised, particularly new homes. “I am also aware of several distressing incidents across Walkden recently residents have contacted me about groups of children and young people involved in antisocial behaviour. “Very recently, I received an email reporting that children were kicking resident’s front doors, vandalised the shed used by the Friends of Parr Fold Park, and causing other disturbances in the area.
READ MORE: Longsight Park digging causes resident concern for wildlife Bolton prices for pest control services detailed in new budget One in ten Bolton people giving unpaid care, council hears “These actions are not only unacceptable but deeply upsetting for those affected. I have already reached out to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and Salford Council officers to ask for urgent action and support to stop this behaviour and I am hopeful that the police and council officers will take appropriate action. A gate was also damaged by vandals.
(Image: James Jordan) “What is especially disheartening is the lack of concern or cooperation from some parents. “We need families, schools, and the community to work together to ensure our young people understand the consequences of their actions and are supported to make better choices. I will be raising this issue at the next multi-agency meeting, where GMP, council teams, housing providers, and other partners come together.
“Tackling antisocial behaviour and protecting our community must be a shared priority.” A CGI of new affordable homes being built in Mayfield Avenue in Walkden, Salford. (Image: ForHousing) Speaking to The Bolton News Paul Whitelegg, 56, who lives opposite the damaged properties said: “It’s awful, the housing built was meant to provide beautiful apartments for homeless people and they had been worked hard on.
“The thugs that did this should feel ashamed; it’s probably kids in the area causing a nuisance. “I think it would be nice to see more PCO’s patrolling the area. They already do a great job, I understand that the police are stretched, but ultimately, I think seeing more officers out and about on the streets would prevent a lot of it.
” Nigel Sedman, Executive Director of Homes at ForHousing, said: “We are deeply disappointed by this senseless act of vandalism to the newly built homes at Mayfield Avenue. “We’re moving quickly to carry out repairs and have already taken steps to further tighten security on site. We are also working closely with the police to support their investigation.
” Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for comment..
