98 cases of anti social behaviour in Limavady

Approximately 4,700 incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB) were received and processed across the Housing Executive's 35 District Offices, a slight increase of 6.7% on the previous year (4,390).

"This may well be due to increased public confidence in reporting ASB to the Housing Executive. This year the Housing Executive has repossessed 54 properties on the grounds of anti-social activity," said a spokesperson.

From April 2009 to March 2010, the Housing Executive in Limavady recorded 98 cases of anti-social behaviour.

Frank Mulhern, Community Safety Manager said: "Our district offices have performed extremely well this year but there is still much more that can be achieved. We must continue to work with communities to bring an end to anti-social behaviour. I would encourage people to report incidents as and when they occur and not to suffer in silence. We will continue to work closely with our colleagues in the PSNI and local councils to address anti-social behaviour."

The Housing Executive's focus is on early interventions that stop such behaviour and action that helps keep people in their homes. Legal action is therefore only required in 1% of all reported incidents of anti-social behaviour.

"The majority of reports we receive are relatively low level incidents with over 25% of all reports relating to noise nuisance," said Mr. Mulhern.

"Most cases can be resolved by the use of warning letters, Acceptable Behaviour Contracts or referral to our mediation service. Over the past 12 months we have seen a significant increase in mediation referrals from 89 to 184. This approach is clearly having a positive impact.

"If you are a Housing Executive tenant and are experiencing anti-social behaviour, you should report the incident immediately to your local Housing Executive District Office. You can come and talk to us confidentially and we will see what needs to be done to tackle the problem."