Policing strategy brings positive change to Highfield estate in Kettering
Police and council collaboration targets crime and improves public spaces
Police in Kettering have spent the past year proactively addressing crime and anti-social behaviour on the Highfield estate through collaboration with North Northamptonshire Council and other partners.
Following the Home Office’s Clear Hold Build strategy, the initiative has focused on reducing crime, improving public spaces, and fostering community cooperation for sustainable change.
The Clear phase involved active disruption of criminal activities, resulting in the arrest of 36 individuals, with 34 facing charges or out-of-court resolutions.
Local officers spent approximately 1,600 hours patrolling the estate, addressing serious concerns such as drug dealing, violence, and anti-social behaviour.
Efforts made during this phase led to a notable reduction in serious offences.
With crime rates stabilising, the Hold phase saw improvements to the community environment, including additional CCTV cameras in Spring Rise Park and enhanced street lighting.
Local campaigns, educational outreach in schools, and the establishment of Street Watch and Neighbourhood Watch groups further supported these changes.
The Build phase focuses on ensuring lasting improvements, with continued partnership between the council and residents aided by the neighbourhood policing team.
The successful Clear Hold Build project has now laid the groundwork for extending efforts to the Croyland area of Wellingborough, while maintaining support for Highfield.
Sergeant Jay Cheema, leading the project, emphasised the importance of community involvement in achieving positive outcomes.
Residents are encouraged to reach out to their local neighbourhood police team with any concerns.
Council and police leaders expressed their satisfaction with the project’s success and reinforced their commitment to building safer communities across North Northamptonshire.