NEW COLD CALLING ZONE IN WESTFIELD (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

NEW COLD CALLING ZONE IN WESTFIELD

August 1, 2008 1:00 AM

A new Cold Calling Zone is being launched next Monday, 4th August, in Willoughby Way in Westfield, following calls from residents. PCSOs surveyed residents in Willoughby Way and received a very positive response about setting up a Cold Calling Zone.

Cold Calling Zones aim to prevent 'doorstop crime', particularly that associated with cold calling such as distraction burglary. Residents within a designated zone agree that they do not wish to deal with cold callers, and can report anyone breaching their wishes to trading standards or the police. Signs are put in place to warn uninvited callers that they are not welcome in the area.

The scheme began last October when five Cold Calling Zones were set up around the city. Since then, many more have been launched and when Willoughby Way is added to the list there will be 28 Cold Calling Zones around York, covering 49 streets and 1, 625 properties. 66% of residents in the zones say they are less concerned since the zones had been introduced.

Several more Cold Calling Zones are due to be launched in August, including another in Westfield, at The Gallops.

Cllr Sue Galloway, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Westfield, said: "Cold Calling Zones have been well-received across the city and have been a big success in making residents feel they can deal with cold callers effectively."

"I am very pleased that two new Cold Calling Zones are being launched in Westfield this month and it is important that the Police and the Council continue to work together to tackle concerns about doorstep crime and ensure that residents feel safe in their homes."