COMPANIES in Radcliffe are to get a huge boost in the crackdown on crime.

Next month a new Business Security Initiative will be piloted in the town thanks to a partnership between Bury Council and GM Police.

Under the scheme, grants will be made available to manufacturing companies with up to 50 employees to help carry out a range of security improvement measures to drastically reduce crime and vandalism.

These will include the installation of security locks and bolts for doors and windows, shutters and grilles, security lighting systems and the upgrading of alarm systems.

Radcliffe has been chosen to pilot the scheme because of the large number of manufacturing companies established here.

Individual companies can obtain 50 per cent of the total cost of security upgrades to a maximum grant contribution of £2,500. Group applications, which cover initiatives such as CCTV, will be eligible for a maximum of 75 per cent of the total cost up to £6,000.

The chairman of Radcliffe Area Board, Coun Barry Briggs, said: "Crime is something that preys on many people's minds and the business community is no different. I am sure that local manufacturing companies in Radcliffe will very much appreciate this opportunity to upgrade their own security and not only protect their property but also the future of the workforce."

The initiative will be funded by Single Regeneration Budget funds and the intention is to extend it borough-wide from next April.

Mr Peter Weidenbaum, the managing director of Radcliffe firm, Trumeter, which manufactures counting instruments, said: "As a local businessman myself I am all too aware of the cost and difficulties caused by crime and vandalism to company property and premises. Almost every day of the week a manufacturing company somewhere in the borough reports a break-in with a loss of valuable stock or equipment. Apart from the sheer inconvenience, there is the cost of replacement and re-insurance along with the disruption to vital customer services."

Mr Weidenbaum, who is the chairman of the Single Regeneration Budget steering group, added: "Criminal damage at business sites and premises can mean heavy cleaning and repair bills while some manufacturers find themselves the subject of repeat offences which eventually sap confidence and depress staff morale.

"The Business Security Initiative will provide financial support to significantly improve security and cut down on criminal activity."