Safer Streets 6 month project update
6 months into the project and a lot of changes have been implemented to address the concerns and issues of the Oakwood Hill estate residents.
The Safer Streets Project for Oakwood Hill, funded through a successful bid for Safer Streets funding—totalling £167,500, supplemented by an additional £141,000 from Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) and partners.
The year-long project aims to enhance the environment, safety, and health and wellbeing of residents in the Oakwood Hill estate.
Project update
Increasing CCTV coverage
4 new cameras were installed in December around Marlescroft Way, Highwood Lane and Lower Alderton Hall Lane. Phase 2 of the CCTV project will include the installation of cameras at the road entrance points and by the community hall. Phase 2 is due to be completed by March 2025.
Improved lighting
A comprehensive assessment of locations requiring new or enhanced lighting took place in Autumn 2024. Repairs and additional lighting will be completed by summer 2025.
Weed management
The estate has already seen a significant improvement with weeds being removed to refresh the pathways. Regular weed management will be scheduled twice a year moving forward.
Qualis have also cut back overgrown hedges and bushes, tidying up and enhancing the overall appearance of the estate.
Increased waste management
In response to community feedback, additional bins for rubbish and dog waste, have been installed throughout the estate.
Increased patrols
EFDC patrols have increased to ensure compliance with the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) regarding dog fouling.
Graffiti removal
Highway rangers have removed graffiti around the estate and continue to carry out regular maintenance to the estate.
New way finder maps
The old way finder signs have had an upgrade and new and improved signs have been installed to help visitors navigate the estate.
Youth engagement initiatives
In the summer of 2024, EFDC partnered with Youth Unity to engage with the local youth through various activities, including sports, podcasts, and video games. This helped gain insights into the needs and interests of young people in the community. As a result, plans are being discussed to start a youth club at the Community Hall.
Spark2Life has been commissioned to conduct assemblies and mentoring sessions in local secondary schools, focusing on community safety, respect and communication.
In October 2024, ARC theatre was commissioned as part of the project to deliver Broadcast Junior in the local primary schools. This focused on healthy relationships and online safety for year 5 and 6 students.
Community Safety Day of Action
In October 2024, EFDC hosted a Community Safety Day of Action with partners, aimed at engaging residents to discuss their concerns and offer crime prevention advice. More than 100 residents of Oakwood Hill received advice and support through a crime prevention stall, EFDC and Police patrols and door knocking.
The next Community Safety Day of Action will be held on Saturday 8 March 10am to 2pm.
Police have conducted road safety days to address speeding issues on the main road.
Safety kits
A community defibrillator and bleed kit are to be installed outside the community hall.
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