Newgate as bad as ever, say residents

Figures show crime in the Newgate ward has been cut by 20 per cent since 2010-11, while anti-social behaviour in the ward has also reduced, with a drop of more than half.

The crime statistics showed that Gladstone Street and Newgate Lane, which were both identified as particular hotspots, had seen huge improvements - with all crime down by 37 per cent on Gladstone Street and by 48 per cent on Newgate Lane.

But Steve Edwards, a repairs shop owner, said he believed crime was on the increase.

He added: “My shop was broken into in March and I lost a lot of money. It was the first time in 20 years.

“I put it down to the younger generation - they are a lot worse than they used to be.”

A hairdresser, who preferred not to be named, said: “I would say crime has risen - you see so many druggies walking around with cans in their hands in their pyjamas - they have not done a day’s work in their lives.

“You do not want to be down here at night if you are working late because it gets a bit scary.”

A caterer, who also did not want to be named, said: “It is a load of rubbish - if crime has fallen in this area it is because all the criminals have moved out.

“Nobody ever stays around here too long because it is a dump - they have either gone to prison or moved away.”

Sue Biddle, who was chairman at Newgate Area Tenant & Resident Association from 1989 but stepped down two years ago, said: “I would hope the figures were true but I am a little sceptical.

“People are easily intimidated and scared that if they report anything they will get a brick through their window.”

Paul Henshaw, Mansfield District Councillor for Newgate ward, said: “I think it is fantastic news about the crime reduction in Newgate Ward.

“It shows how community groups and the council can work together to have a positive impact.”