THE police and city council have promised to leave no stone unturned in their bid to make Ryelands a crime-free estate.

They have joined forces to tackle anti-social behaviour and criminal activity on the estate after residents said they believed the fight against crime was fundamental towards regenerating the area.

In the past month they have obtained an injunction against one tenant, Darren Whyte, who is no longer allowed on the estate other than to live at an address on Marshaw Road and if he breaks the injunction he can be arrested.

On 10 April the council, supported by the police, gained an immediate possession order in the county court against a tenant known to be causing problems on the estate, either directly or through visitors. The police have also successfully prosecuted five people in relation to an assault on the estate, two of who received custodial sentences. The council worked closely with the police to support the victim of this serious assault. Some of the perpetrators had also previously been involved in racist crime on the estate.

In addition to these actions, two more tenants have left the estate after the council commenced action against them. Two individuals have signed Acceptable Behaviour Contracts that provide the police and the council with assurances about future conduct, and if broken, can be cited in future action.

In a concerted effort to clamp down on crime the council and police plan more action.

In the next month, two more Notices of Seeking Possession will be served and arrangements are being made for five more anti-social behaviour contracts to be signed.

Commenting on the actions, chair of housing Cllr Carol Broad said, "The council and the police want to encourage victims to come forward. They will do all they can to support them and have only been successful in their recent actions because they had the support of tenants and residents."

"The council's housing service and the police need to win the confidence of residents and are busy preparing a community safety agreement for the area. This will set out the community priorities and the type of action they can expect from the police and council housing services."

Cllr Roger Sherlock, ward councillor for the Ryelands Estate added: "Ryelands is an estate with huge potential. It has a strong local community and is ideally located close to a beautiful park, the River Lune and the city centre. The residents of Ryelands want to halt the actions of the minority of people who cause problems on the estate. Enough is enough. They have taken a stance, and the police and council housing services will support them."

An example of positive community action was seen on April 14 when the tenants and residents of Ryelands organised a fun day on Ryelands Park. Events included a bouncy castle, face painting and fancy dress competition. Over £200 was raised which will be used to support activities and events for the residents of the estate.

Commenting on the actions taken, Chief Inspector Toole said: "They are shining examples of the level of commitment shown by both the police and local authority in highlighting their determination to tackle crime and disorder on the Ryelands Estate and, in particular, our joint intention to stamp out racism in Lancaster.

Both the police and local authority are keen to reassure the residents of the Ryelands Estate that no stone would be left unturned until the quality of life of all residents on the estate is improved."