A COMMUNITY meeting was held to establish a blueprint for cracking down on rampant anti-social behaviour on a Colchester estate.

The Greenstead Community Centre hosted residents, police officers, housing providers and family support workers on Monday evening.

During the gathering the guests were updated on the action being taken to deter a problematic group of youngsters from causing further trouble in the area.

Trippier House, for example, which was regularly being targeted by the hoodlums, has been securely boarded up and anti-vandalism paint has been applied.

Gazette:

Colchester Borough Homes are also now said to be working with Colchester Garrison with a view of putting a discipline programme in place.

Six youngsters previously arrested for offences in Greenstead, who are currently on bail, have already been referred to the scheme.

It is understood legal action is also being taken against housing tenants whose children have been involved in causing misery to residents.

READ MORE: Police vow to end 'out of control' Greenstead gang's reign of terror

Colchester councillor for Greenstead, Julie Young, has also met with school bosses at Unity Primary Academy with a view of establishing an after-school football club.

She said: “There is lots happening but residents are still suffering, so even if you think the police won’t be interested if they knock on your door, they are.”

Speaking previously the police also vowed to end the reign of terror in Greenstead.

As part of the force’s crackdown, six youngsters have been arrested on suspicion of causing £10,000 worth of criminal damage and racially aggravated offences.

In a bid to prevent further rampages officers are also engaging with schools to ensure children are aware of the consequences of getting involved in antisocial behaviour.

A police spokesman said: “This issue is being taken seriously and tactics are in place to tackle the issue, including patrols and the use of stop and search powers.

“Action is being taken in a variety of ways including, where appropriate, criminal charges but also community resolutions and referrals to the Youth Offending Service.

“Greenstead also has a dedicated PCSO, who is acutely aware of the issues being raised by residents and councillors in Greenstead.

“The information provided to her informs our patrols as well as our preventative and response tactics.”