Youths could face a hi-tech ear-bashing

The alleyway connecting Roman Road and Hampton Road

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

A FAILSWORTH councillor is calling for the use of a controversial device to tackle anti-social behaviour.

The mosquito emits an irritating, high-pitched noise that can only be heard by people under the age of 25 and is used to disperse groups of youths.

Failsworth East councillor Paul Martin believes installing the device in an alleyway connecting Roman Road and Hampton Road, in Failsworth, where youths congregate, could be the answer to residents’ complaints.

They have accused the youngsters of lewd behaviour as well as drinking and urinating in the alley.

Supporters of the mosquito claim the device has successfully dealt with many cases of anti-social behaviour.

But calls have been made for it to be banned amid claims it infringes young people’s human rights.

Having explored the options of erecting alley gates and extra police patrols, Councillor Martin said: “Although still an option, the alleyway cannot be easily gated off as there are rights of way issues.

“We looked at higher levels of lighting but we came to the conclusion that this could in effect make matters worse.”

Councillor Martin said he was told former council chief executive Andrew Kilburn would not allow the use of mosquito devices in Oldham.

Councillor Martin said both Failsworth Neighbourhood Manager John Norris and the council’s antisocial Behaviour Team were reluctant to support having the device.

However, he wants to discuss the matter with new chief executive Charlie Parker.

He said: “I’ve got residents who are sick and tired of the sort of behaviour they have to put up with.

“They’ve found needles and underwear in that alley.

“I’m considering sending Mr Parker an email to find out what he thinks about installing a device. The ideal situation would be to have sufficient police officers in the street to deal with this but they just haven’t got the resources.

“There is no easy solution.”