A PARTNERSHIP approach has brought peace and quiet to a troubled east Durham estate.

Elderly residents living in the Beverley Way and Morton Square areas of Peterlee have been plagued by youth disorder and anti-social behaviour for months.

With complaints mounting to East Durham Homes (EDH), the company which manages Easington District Council's housing stock, it was decided the time had come to take action.

EDH decided the way forward was for it to join forces with Durham Police, the district council and a number of local community organisations.

Complaints from residents in the bungalows around Beverley Way and Morton Square included problems arising from youths drink- ing, fighting, smashing bottles and trespassing in the area.

Amanda Fulcher, EDH estate management co-ordinator explained her company's route to address the anti- social behaviour.

She said: "We had received a number of complaints from residents and felt that working in partnership with the other organisations was the best way to resolve the problems.

"After discussing the issue at the Central StreetSafe Board meeting, we agreed a number of measures to deter youths and help residents feel safer in their homes.''

It was decided to increase patrols in the area by local beat officers and council street wardens.

The group also took a close look at some of the physical aspects of the estate, which could be improved.

As a result, trees and bushes in front of some of the properties which had become overgrown and were providing cover for the troublemakers were removed.

A similar exercise was carried out on a patch of woodland skirting the homes of the elderly residents.

In addition, 90 yards of fencing, complete with anti-vandal paint was installed, along with security lighting to prevent trespassing on to gardens.

The area's Community Safety Partnership funded the fencing and the Developing Initiatives for Supporting Communities paid for the security lights.

Mrs Fulcher said the different measures have proved very successful in combating the problems.

She said: "We are very pleased with the work which has been done and to date we have received no further complaints.'