Alley gating is a very simple crime prevention measure that involves erecting gates to the ends of alley-ways and passages that are the responsibility of the home owners who live around them.
There are a number of other advantages in addition to reducing the levels of burglaries that include:-
- Reducing opportunities for youths to cause annoyance - This could mean anything from drinking in the alleys to taking drugs
- Fewer problems of dog fouling by stray dogs
- Safe play areas for children
Improved community spirit giving a sense of ownership of the alleys
Application to the Local Authority needs to be sort to confirm that the alley does not form part of the public highway, and also to ascertain whether or not there are any public rights of ways or presumed rights of way over the land.
Full agreement should be sort from all affected residents and arrangements made to cover all costs incurred in the purchasing, erecting and on-going maintenance of the gating. If applicable, an arrangement for access for refuse collection vehicles needs to be managed by the residents after erection of the gates.
Contact:
Public Realm
Environment and Regeneration
Low Hall
Argall Avenue
London E10 7AS
Tel 020 8496 3000
Email wfdirect@walthamforest.gov.uk
