Nuisance callers will now be forced to do a ‘double take’ in Wharfedale and Craven after Police launched a second scheme to deter them from doorsteps.
Officers from the Wharfedale and Craven NPT have said they have been delighted with the response from residents in Burley-in-Whafedale after they received the go ahead to launch a second ‘no cold calling zone’ to protect vulnerable residents.
It will protect around 350 homes and follows the successful start of a similar scheme in areas of Ilkley last year, which proved to be popular with residents there.
The latest initiative has been jointly funded by Burley Parish Council, the Shipley Area Co-ordinators Office and from cash seized from crime under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Like the Ilkley scheme, it is being publicised through signs and stickers displayed in streets and participating homes warning that residents don’t want to be contacted on their doorsteps by those trying to sell unsolicited goods and services.
While the majority of cold callers trying to sell products such as double glazing or roofing may be genuine, the technique can also be often used by thieves to trick their way into houses claiming to be from utilities companies.
Officers have stressed the cold calling zone would only be intended to put off opportunists and thieves rather than reputable trades and salesmen.
Insp Sue Sanderson of the Wharfedale and Craven Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are pleased to have got our second ‘no cold call zone’ up and running and want to thank partners for their support in providing funding.
“We have found these zones really do provide some comfort and support to our more vulnerable residents and make a positive impact in the communities in which they operate.”
The Inspector added: “Experience shows nuisance and bogus callers can be dissuaded from making that initial knock by schemes such as these, and it is these nuisance callers we are intending to target and not reputable tradesmen who can put leaflets through the door.”
