Alleygates installed to prevent anti-social behaviour on a back alley in Great Harwood have been hailed a success.
The gates were put in place last month by Hyndburn council after funding was approved from the remaining area council budget.
They aim to restrict access to a back alley adjoining several properties on Segar Street, Lomax Street, St Hubert’s Road and Glebe Street.
The Observer revealed earlier this year how councillors were given the go-ahead for a three-year Public Spaces Protection Order on the alleyway after more than 20 bordering properties signed a petition last year.
Offenders are liable to pay fixed £100 penalty if they break the order.
Ward councillor Noordad Aziz said: “We finally managed to secure the funding and got the alley gates up about mid-July.
“There has been a massive decrease in anti-social behaviour since the gates went up and the residents in that area are really happy.
“It used to be a hub for youths to cause trouble and now they can’t get into the back alley so it’s really quietened down. For us it’s been a success.”
Coun Aziz said the scheme could be rolled out to other areas if funding can be secured.
He said: “We are going to look and see how this goes and if it remains successful.
“These gates do generally improve the area and have a positive effect, but given the councils finances it depends on what funding is available.
“It shows that we are listening to the residents even with the cuts and trying to get the best deal for them.”
