Trethomas alley gating scheme aims to combat anti-social behaviour

30 April 2009

A scheme to gate an alleyway, which has in the past experienced high levels of anti-social behaviour, has been launched in Trethomas.

The "Alleygating" scheme, which has been funded by the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership, aims to reduce levels of anti-social behaviour in the vicinity of Llanfabon Drive and Bryn Road in Trethomas, by restricting access to the lane, where anti-social behaviour has previously occurred.

It is hoped that the initiative will significantly improve the security of homes and businesses in the surrounding area. Feedback from similar schemes around the UK has shown that the installation of high quality, fully lockable gates at the entrances of alleyways can bring about a significant reduction in anti-social behaviour levels.

In addition, the new gates protect the alleyway from the possibility of fly tipping, dog fouling and vandalism, thereby improving the general environment for residents.

Only emergency services, residents and business owners from properties directly linked to the alleyway have been issued with keys.

Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman said, "This excellent initiative is another important tool in helping us to tackle anti-social behaviour throughout the Caerphilly county borough.

The issue of anti-social behaviour has featured heavily at a number of PACT meetings in the Trethomas area over recent months, and this alleygating scheme really emphasises our commitment to putting the concerns of our residents first – we will not let the anti-social behaviour of a small minority adversely affect the lives of the majority."

Bedwas Neighbourhood Sergeant Gareth Jones, said: "The installation of the gate is just one of the ways that we are tackling anti-social behaviour in the area with our partners. We hope that it will prevent youths from gathering and causing a disturbance. Residents have raised it as an issue at PACT meetings, and this demonstrates that we are always looking at new ways to try and address these issues."

For further information, please contact the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership on 01443 864374.