Police step up patrols due to concern over looters breaking into homes damaged by Stalybridge tornado

Thieves are breaking into homes left damaged and unoccupied following the tornado which damaged 100 houses in Stalybridge.

Now Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are stepping up night time patrols in the area to deter looting.

Burglars are taking advantage of the damage caused to more than 60 homes deemed to dangerous for householders to live in to go on a looting spree.

The storm’s impact was most severe in the Millbrook and Carrbrook areas, where it left homes without roofs, uprooted trees, and brought down walls.

If you see any suspicious activity report it via the online reporting service on the GMP website or via 101. In case of Emergency, please ring 999.

Last week, The Reporter revealed the council has dealt with more tha 1,000 calls to an emergency tornado hotline.

The emergency control centre remains open to support those affected by the storm and tornado 24/7 on 0161 342 2222.

Cllr Gerald Cooney, executive leader for Tameside Council, said: “We have issued 89 Dangerous Building Act notices and originally advised 32 households they cannot return to their home until works are carried out to ensure they are safe. 

“In all instances, households have been advised to contact their building insurers and mortgage providers, who can provide further advice and, where necessary, for those who cannot reside in their home’s temporary accommodation.”

Council staff have been out daily, assessing buildings, clearing roads, felling trees, repairing street lighting, and providing support where needed.  

Around 75 staff and contractors were brought in to assist with the response over the holiday period, and at least three weeks of cleanup is anticipated.

High fencing is in place around all dangerous buildings to make the areas safe, and the felling of hazardous trees along the highways is being carried away on a priority basis to ensure they are safe and accessible as soon as possible. 

“We will soon move over into our parks, greenspaces and other accessible land, and so I urge residents to please be careful in these areas in the meantime and to bear with us while we get through the work,” he said.  

“We have been phoning the residents affected directly and will write follow-up letters this week to check in on how families are doing and whether they need further support or advice.

“ This continues to be a truly difficult time for those who have been displaced and had their homes seriously damaged. My heartfelt sympathies go out to them. I am thankful, however, that there wasn’t a single casualty in all this.”