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Salford Council biting back with alleygating power

Ben Murch
31/ 7/2003

NEW POWERS granted by the government this week will allow Salford Council to close alleyways in crime hotspots as part of a crackdown on robbery, burglary, arson and drug dealing.

Salford is one of 11 local authorities nationally to be granted the alleygating powers.

The powers will apply to Eccles, inner-city Salford, Swinton, Clifton, Pendlebury, Walkden and Little Hulton.

Local environmental quality minister Alun Michael MP said: "For many people living in areas blighted by crime and vandalism, this is very good news. These alleyways have given burglars easy access to the back of houses, or provided an easy escape from police. In other places they have become sheltered havens for drug dealers, or have become an easy target for vandals."

Cllr David Lancaster, Salford Council's crime and disorder spokesman, said: "We have applied for these additional powers because we want to be sure that we have all the possible options open to us to help reduce instances of crime and disorder in our city.

"We will be working closely with government to see that local authorities like Salford take full advantage of these changes in a way that will maximise the benefits for local residents."

Greater Manchester Police community affairs spokesman Chief Insp Tony Kane said: "The improvement in quality of life and the reduction in the fear of crime are just two of the benefits this brings. Supported by operations Magpie and Hawk the alleygating scheme will do much to reduce these types of offences."