Council Clamps Down on Illegal Garage Use
A raid by Harlow Council, Essex Police and the Fire Service on
council-owned garages in the town has resulted in illegal articles
being seized and more garages being taken back and made available
for renting.
Some 130 garages not being officially rented but reported as
being used by local people were opened as part of the joint
operation. Garages in Moorfield, Longbanks, Joyners Field and
Milwards were targeted. The fire service, using specialist
equipment, were on hand to smash open locks which people had
fitted. The purpose of the operation was to check for illegal use
or storage of stolen goods and clear garages for renting out.
Three garages were being used to store illegal or dangerous
items. Gas cylinders were recovered from two and old ammunition
from one garage. Dumped rubbish and other harmless items were
cleared out of other garages. Last year a similar raid took place
which resulted in a stolen vehicle and scooter being found.
Councillor Mark Wilkinson, Chair of the Council's Housing
Committee, said: "The Council owns around 8,700 garages. This isn't
a big problem across the town and only specific garages were
targeted. If people are using our garages without us knowing or
storing illegal items we will smash the locks and get them open.
I'm happy to say that the garages are now back in Council control
and will be available for local people to rent."
Should any resident witness any anti-social behaviour ASB or
know of any illegal use of Council Garages they can reported it to
the Council on 446655. Residents can report any anti-social
behaviour incident by phoning the "it's your call" action-line on
0845 605 2222 or on-line at www.saferharlow.info