A NEW cold calling zone has been launched in York – bringing the total number of homes covered by similar schemes in the city to almost 3,000.

The Cold Calling Controlled Zone in Heslington Croft, off Heslington Lane, in Fulford, is the 83rd of its kind to be set up in York.

Cold Calling Zones aim to prevent “doorstop crime”, particularly that associated with cold calling such as distraction burglary.

They are also designed to help reduce high pressure sales where vulnerable residents find they have signed up for something they do not actually want. Residents within the designated zones agree they do not wish to deal with cold callers, and can report anyone breaching their wishes to trading standards or the police.

Signs are put in place to warn uninvited callers they are not welcome in the area.

Fulford city councillor Keith Aspden said: “Cold Calling Zones have been well-received across the city and have been a big success in making residents feel they can deal with cold callers effectively.

“They give residents the confidence to say ‘no’ and allow them to take control of their environment.

“I am very pleased that this new Cold Calling Zone is being launched. It is important that the police and the council continue to work together to tackle concerns about doorstep crime and ensure that residents feel safe in their homes.”

A spokeswoman for City of York Council said: “Cold Calling Controlled Zones have proved extremely popular and successful since they were launched in 2007 and there are now a total of 83 across York, incorporating a total of 2,911 homes.

“The zones are a way of discouraging cold calling and ensuring that residents don’t fall victim to associated crime.

“A particular benefit is that they can reduce the concern felt by some householders when the doorbell rings and the caller is unknown.”