AN anti-social behaviour hotspot in Potters Bar has been replaced with secure homes. Youths used to flock to a row of dilapidated garages in Aston Way to scrawl graffiti and commit other crimes. But after the borough council and police joined forces with

AN anti-social behaviour hotspot in Potters Bar has been replaced with secure homes.

Youths used to flock to a row of dilapidated garages in Aston Way to scrawl graffiti and commit other crimes.

But after the borough council and police joined forces with the Affinity Housing Association, the garages were torn down and flats built in their place.

The tenants moved in about a fortnight ago.

And on Friday, Chrissy Barclay and Insp Neil Morehen from Herts police presented Affinity's Dick Berry with a certificate to mark the completion of the project.

Mrs Barclay, the force's crime prevention officer for Hertsmere, said the new development would help curb anti-social behaviour in the area.

Each flat, she said, has its own shed and water butt and is designed for "sustainable living".

Describing the project as a "long-term achievement", she added: "This has shown what can be done in terms of turning a mostly horrible run down space into a usable amenity".