CRIMEBUSTING begins at home!

That's the idea behind the transformation of a run-down Runcorn estate from crime-ridden concrete jungle to well-tended neighbourhood.

"It's a hundred per cent better living here now," says John Twigg, of Chester Close, Castlefields, who lives just a few yards from where his former home in Rowlands Walk lies partially demolished.

"I felt at home here the moment I moved in and I've never looked back, even when they were knocking my old place down. This is ideal."

The former baker from Glasgow has lived in Castlefields for 18 years and is one of dozens of residents benefiting from an idea called 'Secured by Design' which sees crime-deterring security features built into new homes.

"The added security means no-one can get in unless I can see their ID and I've even got my own drive-way and front garden with secure fencing," the 42-year-old says from the doorstep of his reinforced porch.

Secured by Design is being backed by Cheshire Police and the CDS and LHT housing trusts behind the £26m regeneration project being built by Crudens Construction. The aim to is reduce crime in Castlefields by building in security features like three-pin door locks, low energy night-lights, laminated windows, and attractive secure fencing at an early stage.

Mark Antrobus, a police architectural and CCTV expert, is hoping the criminals will be put off and the residents will feel safer.

He said: "In most cases crime can literally be designed out of housing areas by reducing the number of dark, badly-lit corners in which criminals can hide."

Around 60 properties ranging from two-bed flats to three-bed semis have been built so far with a total of 240 planned for Castlefields and a similar plan being developed in Murdishaw.

Looking around the open fronts and well-kept gardens in Chester Close where Ferryview Walk once stood, it is hard to imagine crime being rife here once more.

"The change is unbelievable," Mr Twigg says, pointing to the concrete link blocks set to be demolished.

To find out more about how to avoid becoming a victim of crime call Halton police's crime reduction advisor Phil Buckley on 01244-613971.