18/10/2004 - Crime reduction high on agenda of local committee

Today, Cumbria County Council’s local committee for Carlisle agreed to set up a working group to look at ways to introduce Alleygates in areas where local communities want them. The decision encourages positive measures to prevent and reduce crime. 

Chariman of the local committee, John Collier explains: 

"There is a clear desire in parts of Carlisle for alleygates, the public want them and there is a way forward. Reducing crime and the fear of crime is high on the County Council's list of priorities and alleygates can play an important part in some areas of the county. This working group will be made up of officers, councillors and representatives of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. The group will consult with a variety of organisations as well as owners of alleys before any recommendations are brought back to the committee. As it stands the legislation isn’t perfect but with local determination we can meet the wishes of local communities."

The Council’s cabinet supports alleygates as a crime reduction measure. The proposal agreed by Cabinet in May overcomes the need to keep the "highway" open. It is lengthy but without a change in the law is the only way ahead. It followed consultation with the council’s six local committees. The process can take a number of years and is dependent on the nature of the existing right of way. Alleygates have been introduced successfully in Merseyside using this approach.