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More estates to get alleygates
Alleyways in at least four more Preston estates could be gated in a bid to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
The city already has 232 alleygated streets in areas like Tudor Avenue and Crawford Avenue and town centre roads like James Street, Brixton Road and Manchester Road.
Now more gates are to be installed around Tulketh Mill and the Lex Street area.
And council chiefs are to consider pleas from residents for gates in the Deepdale and St George's area of the city and at Crofters Green.
It was revealed last year that crime in already alleygated areas had dropped by up to 36% in 12 months.
Town hall bosses want to plough 300,000 into the schemes in the next year. Before alleygates can be installed, the area in question must meet Government criteria. That includes the area must be affected by crime or anti-social behaviour and the gates must not restrict access to homes.
Preston Council leader Ken Hudson said: "The Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership has found it cuts down on anti-social behaviour and generally makes people feel safer in the areas they live. I am making alleygating a serious priority. We see it as a real way to improve neighbourhoods."
Consultation is set to begin on alleygating streets at the back of Tulketh Mill from Balcarres Road to Inkerman Street.
A council report drawn up by officers says Carphone Warehouse, which is based at Tulketh Mill, has agreed to pay the cost of having the gates installed, offering up to 20,000.
A consultation process is also under way around Lex Street. Various funding sources are being lined up to pay for them.
In addition, an audit is set to be undertaken in streets around Deepdale and the St George's ward to see if alleygating is the right solution.
Coun Hudson has already met residents after he received a petition asking for alleygates.
Coun Taalib Shamsuddin, councillor for the St George's ward in Preston, said: "A few years ago most of the 'Saints' area was done, but unfortunately there were bits which were left out. If they can be done then brilliant."
And Coun Hudson said the planned 300,000 investment could mean other areas are considered.
"If there is a need, provided it meets the criteria, this is a city-wide initiative."
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Weather for Preston
Tuesday 07 February 2012
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