Residents living on a run-down Swindon estate proving a magnet for anti-social behaviour say they are being "intimidated" by groups gathering there.

A Swindon Borough Council safety team are speaking to residents in Eldene this week to find out more about the problems there and how it affects them.

On the evenings of Wednesday, July 31 and Thursday, August 1 the team will be focusing around the Bowleymead Square area to find out how the area can be improved as part of their long-term goal to regenerate Eldene and make it a space where the whole community can enjoy being there and most importantly feel safe in their everyday lives. 

The Swindon Community Safety Team is working in partnership with the council, Wiltshire Police and the parish council and by asking local residents to complete a survey, they will be able to better understand the needs of local people.

Emma Phillips, a borough council anti-social behaviour officer, said: “We hope to speak to as many residents as possible in the location around the Bowleymead Square in Eldene, as this area has fallen into a state of disrepair and is attracting groups who are causing anti-social behaviour.

“Therefore, local residents have been feeling intimated and actively avoiding the area. By conducting this survey, we hope to better understand the needs of our residents in the area and how we can help in the future.”

Council leader, Councillor Jim Robbins said “As part of the Swindon Plan, we are committed to creating safer communities as part of our pledge to Build a Fairer Swindon by reducing disadvantages and disparities in life expectancy, education levels and social justice. This work to reduce anti-social behaviour across Swindon is crucial to wellbeing of our community.

“By speaking to local residents in Eldene, we can hear directly from those affected and get a clearer picture of the issues they face. We hope this face to face survey will also build trust and create an open dialogue between the council and the local community.”

Additionally, local youth outreach and early intervention work will be taking place in the area over the summer break.