Business information

Cold callers given the cold shoulder in Redbourn

Residents in Redbourn plagued by rogue traders, distraction burglars and door-to-door salespeople will have some respite from unwanted callers thanks to the extension of a Hertfordshire Trading Standards scheme.

To deter would-be criminals and unwelcome visits from people trying to sell goods, the following areas will become No Cold Calling Areas (NCCA) from Thursday, January 10 - Gertrude Peak Place, Woollams, New Forge Place (warden-assisted areas) Fish Street, Lords Meadow, Snatchup, Tingeys Close, The Terrace, Ridgetown and Church End.

The areas were launched in partnership with Hertfordshire Constabulary. Clear street signs will be erected stating 'No uninvited salespeople' with a contact number for Trading Standards. Residents will be given a pack containing information about their rights as consumers and useful telephone numbers to call if they are concerned about a cold caller.

County Councillor Richard Smith, Executive Member for Community Safety, said: “Residents should know their rights and feel confident enough to say 'no' when they do not want to purchase goods or services.

"We have had considerable success in getting rogue traders prosecuted through the courts, and will keep up the pressure on people who misuse these tactics.

"There are, of course, legitimate businesses which cold call. But because that practice has been hijacked by distraction burglars and other criminals who prey on vulnerable residents, it has become an unwanted menace and local people have left us in no doubt that they don’t want cold callers at all.”

Neighbourhood police officer for Redbourn, PC Christine Clayton, said: "We are delighted with the launch of the No Cold Calling Zone.

"This zone was initiated by Police Community Support Officer Alli Dewar with the help and support of Trading Standards and Barry Welch - the main Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator for Redbourn.

"Redbourn has a very strong Neighbourhood Watch network which continues to grow in strength. We all continue to work together with residents and partners to keep Redbourn a safe and strong community."

The first NCCA in the county was set up in Potters Bar in October 2005. Similar schemes have also been set up in Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted, Royston, Codicote, Carpenders Park, Hitchin and Borehamwood. These have already proved to be very successful in deterring doorstep operators in those areas.