Milestone for scheme that locks out crime

A CRIME-BUSTING milestone has been reached by Oldham Council which is set to complete its 400th alleygating scheme.

Since the first gates were put in place nearly seven years ago, the initiative has been rolled out across the borough helping to cut anti-social behaviour and providing additional security for 10,000 homes.

Now, 21 households in Middleton Road, Chadderton, which have been troubled by anti-social behaviour, are set to benefit.

Sealing off escape routes or hiding places for criminals has seen burglaries drop in some areas by 80 per cent.

Alleygating is most successful where neighbours come together, ensure the gates are kept closed and locked and use their new shared space, such as safe play areas for children.

Research has shown burglars prefer to break into a house through the back door or window and can use an alleyway at the back of a terrace house without being seen, even in daylight.

A lockable gate to an alleyway helps to keep the number of burglaries down, but it also stops fly-tipping, vandalism, littering and dog fouling.

Councillor Rod Blyth, cabinet member for people and communities, said: “Since the council started installing alleygates nearly seven years ago they have helped to cut burglaries and anti-social behaviour while helping to improve the quality of life for citizens across the borough.

“The council is delivering on its pledge to provide clean and safe neighbourhoods and I encourage more residents to take advantage of alleygating.”

The authority has identified alleygating as one of its key areas for investment, along with a package of measures to improve communities and cut crime.

To learn more about an alleygating scheme in your area call the Community Safety Services on 0161-770 1573.