The Council’s Trading Standards Service and Kenton’s Labour Councillors have joined forces to warn residents of the dangers of cold callers, it was disclosed this week.
Across Kenton Bar, the Gardens, North Kenton and parts of Montagu, No Cold Calling Zones have been established, with two more to be set up in West Montagu and a cluster of streets (The Riding, The Ridgeway and The Fells) following requests from residents.
The zones have been set up to tackle the problem of street crime stemming from doorstep callers, high pressure salesmen, fake workmen and distraction burglaries.
Coun. Stephen Lambert, Chairman of the Kenton Committee, said: ‘’Although crime is down by 14 per cent across Kenton and a staggering 64% in Cowgate, we’re still getting complaints of dodgy workmen trying to fleece old folk and vulnerable adults. Too often these ‘rogue traders’ charge a small fortune for poor quality work and needless repairs.’’
‘’Any resident can be a victim especially older people living alone. The Zones are designed to protect vulnerable people in our community. Each resident covered by a zone will get window stickers and an easy-to-follow information pack. Metal street signs have been installed also’’, he said.
To date, the Council’s Trading Standards has established over 30 Zones across the city.