Gates promise safer future in Newcastle-under-Lyme

31/08/2009

A new set of alley gates is helping to protect residents in Newcastle-under-Lyme's town centre from crime and anti-social behaviour.

Gates are being placed at either end of Scarlett Street as part of an effort by Newcastle Safer Communities Partnership and local businesses to improve safety in the area.

The steel gates are the third such set that Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has installed in the town centre, a measure which has proved "very effective" in reducing graffiti, criminal damage and drug use, according to councillor Phil Maskery.

"Alleyways can be a magnet for antisocial behaviour and alcohol-related violence and the best solution is to block them off in the evenings," he added.

The gates are being installed as part of the Green Routes initiative, which aims to encourage people to use main thoroughfares rather than alleys.

Residents of Newcastle-under-Lyme are currently being encouraged to offer their views on plans for the town's new centre, which may include the installation of more gates.