A NEW approach to tackling crime by improving the quality of life in part of Colchester has been hailed as a great success.

Police say the Safer Colchester Project’s three month focus on Monkwick has “reinvigorated and regenerated a neighbourhood”.

Crime rates have been slashed and a whole range of community projects launched.

The project involved police leading a partnership of 30 agencies, including Colchester Council, the vehicle licensing authorities, NHS North East Essex and the Army.

Initiatives included everything from drugs raids to litter picking sessions, parking clampdowns, licensing checks and giving residents healthy eating advice.

Acting Insp Andy Fusher, of Colchester police, said the idea had been to make people think about how their actions affected others.

He said: “We have achieved impressive results which I really do believe have reduced the fear of crime and improved peoples’ quality of life.

“A lot of it has been about the police creating the space for other agencies to work to help address peoples’ social problems and educate them about to how live as a community.

“It’s not been about using a big stick, although we have done that where necessary.”

The project’s focus shifts to Tiptree from tomorrow, but Mr Fusher said “a lasting legacy” would remain in Monkwick.

He explained: “We have set up a community speedwatch group and various youth activities have been started. This is about what happens in six months time and making sure the improvements are kept up.

“The neighbourhood specialist officer for Monkwick has been working with the project team and knows all the people in all the agencies they can contact to do what is needed to achieve that.”

Alongside the relaunch of a youth club, council street wardens are running a weekly dance class at St Margaret’s Church.