Bin Thefts

Saxonlea Avenue, Lower Manor

Its that time of year again when the nights are drawing in, our curtains are closed and the heating's on. The fireworks seem to get earlier and the shops are full of Christmas decs in October !!!!

Unfortunatly its also the time of year when our wheelie bins start going missing ! Wheelie bin thefts seems to be an annual trend now around the area and as soon as October hits the number of thefts increase.

It may seem like harmless fun to a gang of kids to steal someone's black bin and then set it alight its defiantly not funny for the occupants of the home the have trespassed on.

This is a financial burden to the occupant having to pay for a new bin, even if its been reported to the police, Veolia have been charging for a replacement . Being a victim of a crime can make you feel very vulnerable and has has long lasting effects on some of our older customers. Knowing their property has been targeted in this way can lead to social isolation, anxiety & fear to go outdoors.

So far we have only had reports of bin thefts from concerned customers at Saxonlea Avenue. This is probably because they can easily drag the bin onto the playing fields opposite and set them alight.

So what are we doing to help ?

I have spoken to a number of tenants and advised them if they see or hear anything NOT to approach the youths but to contact the police on 101. Even if you wish to stay anonymous you need to let the police know what's going on. The more reports they receive the better chance we have of getting increased patrols in the area.

Kids are at serious risk from setting themselves on fire and also inhaling the toxic fumes when the plastic melts.

I have contacted both Pipworth School and Park Academy so they can speak to students about this issue and let them know this is theft and a criminal offence for which they can be prosecuted.

I have contacted the emergency services and asked for increased patrols around Saxonlea Avenue in early evenings.

I would also like to advise all customers in the area to start securing their bins. A cheap bicycle lock will deter the perpetrators from stealing your bin. These can be purchased on ebay for £3.99 (Much cheaper than paying for a replacement bin at £34.00)

If you have any CCTV/Ring door bell footage capturing any bin thefts or anti social behaviour in the area please contact us. If you feel concerned or frightened about any issues on your estate please contact us and we will do our best to support you.