Project to put the brakes on vehicle crime

The area in which the project aims to tackle vehicle crime

Cartwheel Arts has been awarded £37,000 from the Home Office Crime and Innovation Fund, which will be used for its ‘Changing Gear’ project.

The project aims to tackle vehicle crime in Darnhill, Heywood, in particular on the playing fields. This will include tackling the illegal driving of cars, mini motos and bikes, vehicle arson and theft.

A spokesperson for Cartwheel Arts, said: “The project will have a creative approach and partner support and working will be important.

“The project will fund, physical barriers installed around the Darnhill playing fields to limit vehicle access and a diversionary youth programme and community participation workshops.

“Project outcomes will be showcased at Darnhill Summer and Winter Festivals and the project will be completed in December 2012.”

Barriers to secure the playing fields are currently in production and will be installed over the coming months, stage one will see the perimeter of the playing fields secured and stage two (match funding dependant) will see the area near the adventure playground secured. Access will be maintained for pedestrians.

The project has been developed with and is supported by a diverse range of partners. These include, The Greater Manchester Police, Community Safety Partnership, Youth Service, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council, Heywood Township, Darnhill Festival Association and Darnhill Residents Action Group.

Community consultation is currently taking place, to have your say post your views in the community post boxes situated in Darnhill Library and in Guinness Northern Counties Offices or visit the drop in consultation meeting on Monday 2 April, 11.30-1.00pm.

For more information contact Kerry Bertram, Project Coordinator, 01706 361300, kerry@cartwheelarts.org.uk