INCREASING estate crime will be targeted as watchdogs plan the next move in the battle for safer streets.

A stream of complaints from people who are fed-up with wilful damage, intimidation, harassment and damage to property and vehicles has brought clampdown plans which could be piloted in Westleigh.

Ward councillor Brian Jarvis has voiced fears that crime on the streets of Leigh is getting out of control and a multi-agency crackdown is needed.

On Monday, behind closed doors at Wigan Town Hall, head of Leigh police, Supt Mary Boylan, MP Andy Burnham, council leader Lord Smith and a number of top council officers and Leigh councillors will decide what their next tactic will be in the battle against crime.

Cllr Brian Jarvis is hoping the meeting will produce something concrete.

He said: "I feel we are losing the battle on the streets. People should be protected, especially the elderly. They do not feel anything is being done.

"I think more could be done regarding anti-social behaviour and really it is a matter that the police, magistrates and councillors could combine to deal with."

Vandalised telephone boxes and bus shelters are a common sight in the area and Cllr Jarvis said Westleigh residents have raised a long list of crime-related complaints.

"I am not saying Westleigh estate is any worse than any other -- I am just more aware of the problems because it is my patch.

"If we can get the problems on the estate sorted out, similar action could follow to benefit other areas."

Leigh MP Andy Burnham has already raised a question about crime in the area at Prime Minister's Question Time in the House of Commons.