RESIDENTS on a city estate have been invited to a one-of-a-kind ‘house-warming’ party, after police moved into an unoccupied bungalow.

Northumbria Police have launched the initiative, said to be the first in the region, to curb anti-social behaviour.

Working in partnership with Newcastle City Council and housing provider, Your Homes Newcastle, it will increase the police presence in part of the city.

Officers have moved into an unoccupied bungalow on Deepdale Green, in the Cowgate area, to work with the community to address nuisance behaviour.

Members of the local neighbourhood team will use the bungalow as a ‘pop-up’ police office where the public will be invited to call in to discuss any concerns they may have.

Sergeant Graham Yare said: “Anti-social behaviour is a problem in many of our communities and we are always looking at new ways we can work together as partners to reduce incidents and identify those responsible.

“We had experienced a large number of calls from residents on this street who raised a concerns about criminal activity.

“By turning this address into a pop-up police house, we hope to act as a deterrent for inappropriate behaviour.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird QC, said she welcomed any initiative to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve residents’ lives.