Win for Waterloo public housing estate

Graffiti, drug dealing and anti social behaviour have plagued the complex for years, but the main problem is that anyone can access the common areas at any time.

The project is modelled on similar plans run in New York and Melbourne, which have increased tenant support, and reduced vandalism and antisocial behaviour.

The program will provide up to 120 jobs through paid traineeships in community services, trade and security for public housing residents.

It will also involve having a concierge information desk in every building on the green, swipe card access, the installation of 60 additional CCTV cameras and improved repairs, with a roving neighbourhood team of contractors from the company Spotless.

Premier Kristina Keneally and Housing Minister David Borger announced the Waterloo Green Neighbourhood Project, which will be brought online by December.

“This is about making public housing safer for residents - particularly older people, people living on their own, and others who need support in their community,” Ms Keneally said.

Residents who have been begging Housing NSW for improved safety measures for years welcomed the announcement.

But Sydney Greens Councillor Irene Doutney, herself a Waterloo Green resident called on Housing NSW to roll the upgrade out across all housing estates in NSW.

“I welcome any measures to curb crime and antisocial behaviour in public housing estates, as well as keeping residences in a livable condition” Cr Doutney said.

“However the sudden injection of funds to Waterloo Green brings into stark contrast the situation at a number of other public housing estates, such as Joanna O’Dea Court in Camperdown, where residents have been desperately crying out for security and adequate maintenance.”

“The pilot program we are announcing at Waterloo Green is based on international best practice,’’ Mr Borger said.

‘’If it works, the Government will roll it out to other appropriate locations.”

Source: http://sydney-central.whereilive.com.au/news/story/win-for-waterloo-public-housing-estate/