Operation Vardar brings safety and greenery to Whitefield with crime clampdown and new community garden plans

Friday, 23 May 2025 19:19

By David Murphy

PC Stodart receiving his district policing award from Bury Commander, Chief Superintendent Kirsty Oliver

Police and council efforts in Whitefield are tackling serious crime and antisocial behaviour while transforming problem areas into safer, greener spaces.

A crackdown on crime in Whitefield has led to sweeping improvements for residents, including funding for a new community garden, upgraded home security, and the proposed closure of a crime hotspot ginnel.

Operation Vardar, launched in September 2024 following a string of violent incidents, has already resulted in major police seizures and neighbourhood upgrades. Led by Inspector Gareth Edwards, the operation has targeted antisocial behaviour, knife crime, and drug activity across the area.

During stage one, officers seized eight off-road bikes, 15 weapons, over 700 cannabis plants, and large quantities of heroin, crack cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, and cannabis. Three stolen vehicles were also recovered.

The focus has now shifted to long-term improvement, with Greater Manchester Police and Bury Council working to secure a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to close the ginnel between Sawley Avenue and Malton Avenue, the site of 67 recorded crimes in 2024 alone. Once gated, the plan is to repurpose the space into a vibrant and sustainable community garden, with funding already secured.

Whitefield Neighbourhood Policing Team has also addressed residents' concerns about youth violence and drug use on land near Abingdon Avenue. Several tenants have since received new gates and fencing, with reports of issues ceasing entirely.

PC Keiran Stodart said: “The team listened to residents, identified at-risk properties, and worked with the council to deliver quick repairs and install preventative measures. The impact has been immediate.”

Further funding has been allocated for access improvements at other properties to help reduce antisocial behaviour.

A new Sensitive Lets policy has been introduced, where anyone applying to move into the area is vetted by GMP and Bury Council Housing Services. Regular joint patrols with housing officers also allow partners to gather feedback and respond to ongoing concerns.

Video doorbells have been installed at several homes on Ripon Close as part of a pilot scheme to test their effectiveness in deterring crime and increasing resident confidence.

The combined efforts highlight a coordinated push to not only reduce criminal behaviour in Whitefield, but to build a stronger, safer and more connected community.