Boulders create new boundary

Brickgarth in Easington Lane was being plagued with noise nuisances and vehicle disorder from motorcyclists and 4x4s, and fly-tipping.

They are now being deterred by 47 limestone boulders and a new boundary line blocking unofficial entranceways through borders and verges into the neighbouring Flatts recreation area.

The three tonne boulders are a donation from nearby Eppleton Quarry to the HALO (Hetton Aspirations Linking Opportunities) community safety project which now also covers Easington Lane.

The boulder boundary is one of the first projects for HALO as it extended its reach into Easington Lane in June.

Alongside reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, HALO's priorities are work on health, housing, environmental improvements and building links within the community. 

Deputy Leader of Sunderland City, Cabinet Member for Clean Green City, Councillor Claire Rowntree is a Hetton ward member - the ward that includes Easington Lane.

She said: "Alongside the noise, the nuisance and tipping, bikes and vehicles were churning the ground up and creating a muddy waste-land. We looked at the problems and reducing access points to vehicles was a key point in improving the area so that it could be enjoyed by the community and not ruined by a minority.

"We asked Eppleton Quarry about whether boulders could help and we're happy to report that they have made this generous donation. This is a good example of how everybody works together in HALO."

Eppleton Quarry's General Manager Michael Ambrose, said: "We're very happy to help and welcomed the invitation from the HALO Project. The quarry prides itself on the safety and security of our community and we hope this safety measure contributes to the well-being of everyone around Easington Lane."

HALO started work in February last year and follows a similar successful and award-winning project in Southwick.

Sergeant Martyn Scott, of Northumbria Police, said: "As part of our continued HALO collaboration, and with support from local businesses, we have been able to install the boulders to help prevent further disorder - especially in relation to vehicles.

"The initial results have been encouraging to see, and we would ask anyone who experiences any issues in the area to report it to the most appropriate agency. That way we can continue to fight crime and keep people safe in the community."

Alongside the City Council, health agencies, Gentoo and Northumbria Police and others, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are a HALO partner.

Scott Wilson, Service Delivery Station Manager at Rainton Bridge Community Fire Station, said: "The donation of the boulders at Brickgarth is a welcome addition to the scheme as anything that helps to deter ASB or illegal fire-setting can only be seen as an asset to the local community. We are all trying to keep local residents safe from harm and the HALO project is a great way all contributing to that goal."

Work on tackling anti-social behaviour is continuing, including the deployment of drones to gather information.

Residents are encouraged to report any issues online at www.sunderland.gov.uk/report-it or by calling 0191 520 5550.