Forum Brief: Neighbourhood renewal

The government has announced an extra £21 million for deprived communities.

Around £19 million will extend the funding period for 1,000 street wardens, while a further £2 million will increase the number of neighbourhood management schemes from 20 to 30.

Forum Response: Local Government Association

Councillor Ruth Bagnall, chair of the LGA housing executive, said: "We are very pleased that the government has listened to the LGA and other groups who have expressed real concern with the future funding of the wardens.

"This announcement of an additional years funding for specific neighbourhood and street wardens is proof of their importance as the eyes and ears of the community.

"Wardens play a vital role in crime reduction. They support victims of mugging, assist police in major operations and play a role in ridding the streets of abandoned cars, graffiti, fly tipping and general anti-social behaviour.

"By providing local solutions to local needs wardens are better able to respond to the particular problems encountered by residents in their area. Wardens free up police resources and are a cost effective way of dealing with crime and disorder."