A major transformation is underway in Byker, with striking new community artwork unveiled as the latest sign of how Labour Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth’s investment is helping make neighbourhoods safer, stronger and more welcoming.
The vibrant installation on Shields Road is the result of a partnership between the Commissioner, Newcastle City Council and local residents, funded through Susan Dungworth’s Project Shield programme. It forms part of a wider regeneration of the area, bringing together investment in community safety, public spaces and local pride.
The project is about far more than brightening up the high street. It is part of a long-term Labour approach that tackles the root causes of anti-social behaviour while investing in communities that have too often been overlooked.
For the past two years, Byker has been one of the Commissioner’s Project Shield hotspot areas, with Northumbria Police and partners delivering extra patrols alongside targeted action to address issues including street drinking, littering and loitering. That work has helped deliver a 40% reduction in anti-social behaviour over the past year, making a real difference to the lives of local people.
Working alongside Newcastle City Council, the Commissioner supported artist Alec Saunders to work with young people and community organisations, including Foundation Futures, to create artwork celebrating Byker’s unique identity across shutters and walls on Addison Road.
The initiative builds on wider regeneration activity, brought in by the previous Labour administration, in the area, including Newcastle City Council’s Inclusive, Healthy, Vibrant High Streets programme and the work of the EPIC Team to create cleaner, safer neighbourhoods where people can thrive.
The success follows a similar environmental improvement at West Denton underpass, where redesigned public spaces have been accompanied by a dramatic fall in anti-social behaviour, demonstrating how investing in communities can help prevent crime and improve public confidence.
Susan Dungworth, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, said:
“Byker has always had a proud identity and strong community spirit, but local people told me they wanted action to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve the area. That’s exactly what Project Shield is delivering.
“This investment shows what can be achieved when we work together with residents, the council, police and community organisations. We’re seeing anti-social behaviour fall, people feel safer, and public spaces are being transformed into places the community can be proud of.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live. As Labour Police and Crime Commissioner, I’m committed to continuing to invest in neighbourhood policing, prevention and community-led improvements that tackle crime and build stronger communities. Byker is on the up, and we’ll keep working together to build on that progress.”