It’s a lock-out

180 new barriers, 406 fewer burglaries

BURGLARY rates across Oldham have been slashed by a fifth thanks to the installation of 180 new alleygates.

In 2009/10, the number of houses targeted by burglars was 1,577 — 406 fewer than the 1,983 recorded in the previous year.

The drop has been credited to the council’s Community Safety Service (CSS) which has installed 103 lockable gates, protecting 1,110 homes.

The six District Partnerships have also commissioned 77 schemes, ensuring a further 567 households are now safer.

The council has committed £125,000 to fund ongoing work that Oldhamers have asked for to improve safety in their communities.

Councillor Rod Blyth, cabinet member for community safety and public protection, said: “The gating of alleyways is a proven tactic to reduce burglaries and as these figures show it is helping to drive down the number of break-ins while at the same time making sure our citizens feel safer in their own homes.

“Gating also stops other activities that blight our communities, such as anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping, because we are stopping offenders accessing alleys.

“Alleygating has also been successful bringing neighbours together, and the new shared space has been used in interesting and imaginative ways, such as safe play areas for children.”

Since the first scheme was installed seven years ago, 10,000 homes across the borough have been provided with additional extra security.

Sealing off any escape routes or hiding places for criminals has worked and burglaries have dropped in some areas by 80 per cent as a result.

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

Once the council has consulted with residents, the CSS will look into the technicalities of alleygating the area.

When all the issues have been considered a contractor will be appointed and the gates will be installed.

To find out more about an alleygating scheme in your area call the CSS on 0161-770 1573.


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