Homes shut down and criminals targeted as police wage year-long war on Bolton’s troubled estate

A huge operation was launched in the Rumworth area of Bolton last year

A year-long crackdown on a troubled estate in Bolton has led to a 30 per cent reduction in crime, police have said.

Greater Manchester Police launched Operation Coronation in the Rumworth area in May last year. The crackdown was launched amid ‘persistent’ reports of anti-social behaviour, drug-related crime and the exploitation of vulnerable residents on the Thornbank Estate.

As part of the operation, two closure orders were issued in the area as three further addresses were also closed through ‘tenancy action or voluntary surrender’. A new Urban Care and Neighbourhood (UCAN) centre was also opened in the centre of the estate.

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Over the last 15 months, police said the number of incidents reported has halved and crime volume has reduced by almost 30 per cent. A police chief said the estate has been ‘transformed’ during the crackdown.

The operation, between GMP, Bolton Council and Be One Homes, came to an end this week. Sergeant Oliver Cooper, from GMP’s Neighbourhood Team in Bolton said: “This operation has been significant in increasing public confidence and safety.

“Ensuring people feel safe amongst their own homes and communities is the main focus of neighbourhood policing, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see the impact this operation has had for residents and overall community wellbeing. I’m truly proud of my officers and teams for the immense work they’ve put in for this operation.

“The operation has transformed a high-demand estate”

“Their commitment and dedication to this work has had visible results and had an extremely positive impact amongst the public. The operation has transformed a high-demand estate, protected vulnerable people, disrupted crime, and most importantly, delivered meaningful and lasting change.”

Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Akhtar Zaman, said: “This is a great example of partnership working to ensure residents of the Thornbank Estate can live in a safe and secure community that they can be proud of.

“The success of Operation Coronation lies in the right mix of engagement and cooperation while also taking tough direct action where necessary. The support available at the UCAN centre will ensure this positive work will continue into the future.”

Gemma Hotchkiss, enforcement manager at Be One Homes, added: “We’re committed to working in partnership to address antisocial behaviour and improve the quality of life for our residents. The progress made through Operation Coronation shows what can be achieved when organisations work together, alongside residents, to tackle issues that matter to local communities.

“We’ll continue to support residents and work closely with Greater Manchester Police and Bolton Council to ensure neighbourhoods remain safe and welcoming places to live.”