Tameside leaders unite in condemning criminal damage

Tameside leaders have condemned incidents of criminal damage at homes in Tameside and across Greater Manchester.

Overnight between 20 and 21 October 2026, four properties in Stalybridge, Dukinfield and Denton were targeted.

Since 5 October, Greater Manchester Police have received 47 reports of criminal damage to properties that are either houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), or properties that are being mistaken for HMOs. The majority of incidents have taken place in Salford, but there have also been reports of damage to properties in Stockport and Tameside.

Tameside Group Leaders Cllr Eleanor Wills (Labour), Cllr Allan Hopwood (Reform UK), Cllr Andrea Colbourne (Conservative) and Cllr Ged Cooney (Independent Group) said in a joint statement:

“We stand completely united in a message to the public: acts of criminality, violence, aggression, and intimidation in Tameside will not be tolerated and are entirely unacceptable in our borough or indeed anywhere. 

“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home and there is absolutely no place for fear or hostility in our communities. 

“Those who choose to engage in this behaviour do not speak for the people of Tameside, and their actions counter the values of safety, respect, and unity that define our towns.

“We want to reassure all residents that we are working closely together, and in direct partnership with Greater Manchester Police. They have made a number of arrests in relation to Greater Manchester incidents and are providing extra patrols in our communities in Tameside. 

“We urge anyone with information regarding the incidents to contact the police immediately. 

“We remain committed to ensuring Tameside remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”

Anyone with information that could support the investigation is being asked to report online or call 101. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.