At the beginning of last year, Lewisham Homes’ residents had the chance to apply for a share of £500,000 from the Resident Led Programme, to help make improvements to their communities. Those ideas are turning into a reality with the first projects in the Programme, now complete.
The Security Contract was the first of three contracts to go ahead, and was completed ahead of schedule at the end of September 2009. The contract saw door entry systems and other security features installed into Mill Gardens, The Park at London Road, Lawrie Park Gardens.
When applications for the programme were made in 2008, residents at Mill Gardens had concerns about security and antisocial behaviour issues that they felt could be resolved if a door entry system was installed. With more than half the tenants who live in the block writing in separately to explain why they needed the system, the resident judges granted the funding to Mill Gardens.
Since the door entry system was installed, security is much improved. Resident Ann Berry – one of the residents who made the initial application – is really pleased with the work.
“We had problems with people who didn’t live here intimidating residents. I feel safe now... I’m very pleased with the door, it’s much more secure – it’s brilliant!” Ann Berry, resident of Mill Gardens.
The door entry systems have been so successful that Lewisham Homes’ residents have opted to dedicate money through their Residents’ Business Plan to carry out this work on more estates.
Resident Led Programme work continues on the Landscaping and Landscaping Plus Contracts, they are due for completion in December 2009 and March 2010 respectively.
