Lockable gates could be put across alleyways which are suffering from persistent crime or anti-social behaviour. The new measures, agreed by the County Council this month, would be used as part of a package to combat problems and improve community safety in a limited number of hot-spots. To apply for a 'gating order', local communities will need the support of their district or borough council and their local community safety partnerships who may also be able to provide funds for gates. Assessing an application will involve striking a balance between the advantages a gate would bring to those suffering and the inconvenience the loss of an alleyway might bring to the public.
Gates would normally be closed for a limited period and only at times when crime or anti-social behaviour is known take place. They would also only be used in areas where other methods have been unsuccessful. The idea has been recommended by a scrutiny panel chaired by C Cllr Matthew O’Callaghan. C Cllrs Michael Charlesworth and Mary Sherwin were also on the panel. Dr O’Callaghan said: “Closing paths where anti-social behaviour is taking place will be very useful for many places across the county.” Mr Charlesworth said: "This policy has been in the making for several years and I am pleased it is now in place and look forward to it being tested with an application in the near future." Mrs Sherwin said: "I welcome this initiative but want to stress that these measures would be used as a last resort and when all else has failed."
