Terrified residents of a housing estate in Cambridge are living in constant fear of a group of unruly youngsters who have been compared to the characters in the novel “Lord of the Flies.” The gang of youths, armed with golf clubs, has been wreaking havoc by breaking into abandoned homes and vandalizing everything in sight, leaving the remaining households distressed.
The estate, located on Ekin Road and built in the 1950s, was initially slated for demolition by the Cambridge City Council to make way for new housing units. However, a handful of homes were saved from destruction following a campaign led by Dr. Maurice Chiodo. Despite this, the abandoned properties have become a target for the feral kids who have been causing chaos and destruction in the area.
Residents have reported incidents of break-ins, property damage, and antisocial behavior, with some expressing concerns for their safety. The situation has escalated to the point where even long-time residents have felt compelled to leave their homes due to the unsettling environment created by the youths.
Efforts to secure the vacant buildings and prevent further disturbances have been emphasized by the residents, who feel abandoned and neglected amidst the ongoing redevelopment plans. Mrs. Sandra Ellis, one of the residents spared from relocation, highlighted the deteriorating conditions of the estate and the lack of action taken by the council to address the escalating problems.
In response, a spokesperson for the Cambridge City Council acknowledged the structural issues in the aging homes that necessitated the redevelopment plans. They reassured residents that measures would be taken to enhance security and address the challenges faced by those remaining in the area during this transitional phase.